AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > May > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTrio at top fuels Braves
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The first three hitters in the Braves’ lineup _ Kelly Johnson, Edgar Renteria, Chipper Jones _ have been arguably the most effective trio at the top of any order in the major leagues so far.
And to give you some idea of what I’m talking about, here’s a snapshot: The Braves have played 13 games in the past 15 days. In 12 of those 13 games, the Braves got a combination of hits and walks totaling at least six from the first three spots in their lineup.
In other words, those three have been on base at least six times in every game during that stretch, and sometimes a lot more. The only time they didn’t do it was Wednesday’s 4-3 win vs. Philly, when they combined for “only” four hits and one walk, but scored three runs between them and got two RBIs from Chipper.
(By the way, it was K.J., Edgar and Chipper in those three spots in every instance except one during that stretch — Chris Woodward hit leadoff in an April 23 loss at Florida and went 1-for-5; Chipper had three hits that night.)
The first three spots in the order produced five or more hits in five of those 13 games, including consecutive games April 25 at Florida and April 27 at Colorado in which Johnson, Renteria and Jones were a combined 14-for-25 with two walks, seven runs and seven RBIs (the Braves totaled 12 runs in those games).
Of course, this shouldn’t be terribly surprising, since anyone who’s watched the Braves knows how instrumental those first three guys have been to their success. Those three and the rotating Nos. 5-6 hitters, Brian McCann and Jeff Francoeur, have carried the offense, with cleanup hitter Andruw Jones still trying to find his stride.
Yes, it’d be scary to think what they might have done with Andruw also crushing during this stretch. But then again, how often have you seen even four or five guys surging at once, which is what the Braves have had for much of the season.
That said, here’s what the Braves have gotten from their first three hitters, as compared to the rest of the National League:
— Braves leadoff hitters (Johnson in 25 of 28 games) rank third in the NL in average (.324), first in OBP (.459), fourth in slugging (.556), tied for second in homers (5), first in walks (27), tied for fourth in RBIs (15), fourth in runs (27). Johnson’s eye-popping .472 OBP includes .479 as a leadoff hitter, the best among major league leadoff man by a huge margin.
— Braves No. 2 hitters (Renteria in every start) are tied for third in the NL in average (.328), third in OBP (.389), third in slugging (.479), second in runs (22), and tied for third in RBIs (17).
— Braves No. 3 hitters (Chipper in every start) are first in slugging (.679), first in homers (10), first in runs (26), second in OBP (.423), second in walks (21), fifth in average (.312) and have the fourth-fewest strikeouts (17).
And, oh by the way, from the fifth spot (Francoeur 14 starts, McCann 13, Thorman 1), the Braves rank second in the NL in average (.333), tied for first in RBIs (24), third in OBP (.397), third in slugging (.546), tied for first in doubles (11) and third in homers (4).
OK, I gotta get to the ballpark now: Braves need another big night from Tim Hudson, because they don’t want to have to rely on Kyle Davies tomorrow in order to avoid losing a series. A Hudson win tonight and the series is theirs.
Strong recommendation:We’ve found a new country-music hero. James Hand, who was recommended by one of our good bloggers here during spring training. After searching record stores in 5-6 cities, I finally found a copy of his incredible CD “The Truth Will Set You Free” in Denver.
This guy is in his mid-50s and just got a recording contract, near as I can tell. And I’m not exaggerating when I say he’s the closest thing we’ve had to Hank Williams, at least in my lifetime. Sounds almost exactly like him on most songs, and writes great songs. Even wears the old-school Western suits with the piping and all. James Hand. Get it online somewhere if you like the real country, the old stuff.
Let’s go back several years, maybe a decade… for today’s music selection. From Modest Mouse, long before they became a big commercial success. This from their great “The Lonesome Crowded West” record. (Man, does this make us conjure images from rough times.)
“POLAR OPPOSITES” by Modest Mouse
Polar opposites don’t push away/It’s the same on the weekends as the rest of the days
And I know I should go but I will probably stay/And that’s all you can do about some things
I’m trying, I’m trying to drink away the part of the day/That I cannot sleep away
I’m trying, I’m trying to drink away the part of the day/That I cannot sleep away
Two one-eyed dogs, they’re looking at stereos/Hi-fi Gods try so hard to make their cars low to the ground
These vibrations oil its teeth/Primer gray is the color when you’re done dying
I’m trying, I’m trying to drink away the part of the day/That I cannot sleep away
I’m trying, I’m trying to drink away the part of the day/That I cannot sleep away
Services »
Comments
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
First?
By BravesDave
May 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Second? Probably not.
By cricket
May 5, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
second ??
By DAP
May 5, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
props to smoltz on the win last night. the bearded icon proved why hes the best. wouldnt it be cool for huddy to one-up him tonight with a no hitter? lets see it!
By Sir Stealth
May 5, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t Jimmy Rollins have more than 5 homers from the leadoff spot? Nitpicking, I know…
By LivininAL
May 5, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
DOB Great stuff as usual- read often but dont comment that often ..Mentioning that stats for first three.. Man!I wish Andruw were a bit more coachable regarding using the opposite field..Frenchy is making strides in that area.. Seems success of Kelly, McCann, and Chipper would influence some others?
By BravesDave
May 5, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
I enjoy games when Craig Wilson doesn’t participate. With Lowe on the mound tonight for the Dodgers, it should be an enjoyable game.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
the queen is hoping for a first or second today. good luck, queen. new shoes?
By jed
May 5, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
Hey Dave—I havent heard of James Hand…thanks for the tip. But I’ve got an album for you from a truly great Nashville-based (by way of the NC mountains) songwriter that very few have heard of. Tom House, “The Neighborhood Is Changing.” The guy’s brilliant and the album’s hardcore genius stuff—rough as hell, but edgy and brilliant. Tom’s a songwriter’s songwriter. I’m setting up a show for him here in town for mid-June. And if you like that, check out Malcolm Holcombe’s stuff. Lucinda has said Malcolm’s one of her favorite songwriters. I opened a show for him a couple years back and he’s a trip. Recovered alcoholic chugging coffee nonstop with a cigarette-scarred voice and incredible insight. But first, definitely, check out that Tom House album. I first heard it 10 years ago and I still hear those songs in my head on a daily basis.
By KC
May 5, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Lew: I agree that Wickman can still help us. No doubt about it. I’m not trying to boot him out the door. But inevitably, there will be teams that are desperate for a closer before the deadline as we were last year. And if that’s the case, and we can add another piece that we need more than Wickman, let’s do it.
The only reason we gave up only a single-A catcher to get Wickman, was that Wickman used his 10-5 powers to block 2 previous trade attempts by the Indians. It seems Wickman made it clear that if Cleveland wanted to get anything in return for him at all… they were going to have to deal him to Atlanta to play for Bobby Cox.
If Wickman didn’t have those 10-5 powers, there’s no way we would have gotten him for so little.
By KC
May 5, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
Lew: I’m rather partial to the Porterhouse at Ruth’s Chris. There’s only one physical sensation that compares to that kind of taste, but since this is a family blog… =)
By Lew
May 5, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
Esteemed Journalist-hat gate is the Queen leaving from? Will the horse also wear lavender silks? What exactly is the protocol involved? Do all of the horses get a later start, or do they just have to stand still until the Queen gets a running head start? What happens if the Queen throws a shoe? Is her arm good enough at her age that she could really hurt someone? Perhaps hurt another horse? If she throwes a shoe, does the race stop until the Royal Footpad (is that the corect term?) gets her a new shoe. Oh, The Humanity. Royals at the Kentucky Derby!! Then again it is the Sport of Kings (or Queens, as the case may currently be).
By Lew
May 5, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
KC-What EXACTLY is it that you do with this Porterhouse that makes it so plaeasurable that you can’t mention it on a family blog? No, nevermind, I don’t really need to know. I prefer a Delmonico or a nice top sirloin, myself. For eating though, not for anything perverse.
By RichmondBrave
May 5, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
I am loving Gonzo and Soriono. This is gonna be a fun year. Great info on the top of the order. If Andrew could stop falling down when he swings maybe he coud get a hit every other game. It would be awesome to get something out of the 4 hole in our order. Thorman reminds me a lot of a young Klesko. Big kid who swings hard every time hoping the ball may get in the way once and a while. Hopefully TP can get into his head and he will learn to harness that power. Johnson is just out of this world good so far. Go Braves! Sweep the Dodgers!
By BravesDave
May 5, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
Dave…what do you think of the new Modest Mouse album with Johnny Marr on guitar? A couple of great songs, including one called ‘Florida’ with backup vocals from the lead singer of The Shins. Overall, I don’t love it. Also, I saw Arcade Fire 3 years ago before they hit it big at a small club in NYC. Even then, they were an unbelievable live show. Back to the Braves…
By KC
May 5, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
I just eat it Lew. That’s all, I swear. But I do sometimes talk sweetly to the steak before-hand. Okay… this conversation is getting weird. Moving on…
If we don’t trade Wickman, I would even be open to trading Gonzalez or Soriano. If Yates continues to pitch this well and Wickman gets healthy, we’d be just fine. More than fine.
But I would ONLY trade one of those 2 for a good young starting pitcher. NOTHING ELSE!
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
I know its been said a hundred times before but….Who couldv’e seen Kelly coming? I bet even Shuerholtz (SP) is even surprised by his production (whether he’ll admit it or not)
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Lew, I see you are still at it. I finally realized how funny your stats scenario for the braves and METS can be when determining the better club this year. The thought of you at home just waiting for a report of Maine and Perez folding is great. You called the El Duque injury (given), Alou is banged up but still playing and producing, and Valetin is injured. You didnt brag about these things because the METS can and will win witout those pieces. You are just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it incenses you that the shoe wont cooperate. The shoe wont drop and becasue you are waiting for it makes it all the better. Reyes is still Reyes, Delgado and Wright will hit, Green will maintain around .300 all year, our bench makes yours look minor leagueish, and the starting and pen pitching is doing just fine. Maybe one year you will get your wish for the shoe to drop, but for now the braves bubble will bust before that shoe drops.
DOB: I will never be a Chippo appreciater, but he makes the game fun because I have a villan to heckle. I wish him no ill-will in life but I do want my team to make him pay for all those big hits. Anyway you guys say what you want about Wright but he has a promising begining and Chipawa’s is almost over. I’ll compare then and show you how a METS killer gets no respect form the rest of the league. Your blogs are still good but when when you get an IQ requirement to blog here? LETS GO FALCONS, AND TAKE THE BRAVES WITH YOU!!!!!!!!
That Davies and James is something special, hope you guys keep them!!!
By Lew
May 5, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
KC-NO, No No. Gonzo and Soriano are under the Braves control for two more seasons after this!!!!! That’s relatively cheap, VERY effective set up and closing. Under NO circumstances should we get rid of them-not even if they do speak to their steaks.
By Brent
May 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
DOB- doesn’t Jimmy Rollins have 9 homers out of the leadoff spot? you said Johnson’s 5 were tied for first, but Rollins should lead that category.
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
KC:
AGREED 100%; A young #2/#3 starter for Gonzo or Yates. I wouldn’t trade Soriano for anything right now. I really believe he’s gonna get better (if thats possible). Gonzo is going to have some type of arm injury at some point. His delivery is something out of a nightmare for a pitching coach.
By BravesDave
May 5, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Met Man…Chan Ho is pretty special, too. We’ll see shortly how special Jorge Sosa is, also.
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
Lew,
Sorry, I had to log off and I missed your post regarding dinner. I took down your e-mail address, and it would be a pleasure to get together with a fellow New England Braves fan! If I do indeed make it to Burlington, you can bet I will try and look you up. I appreciate the offer.
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
May 5, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
MetroDude-Who are you trying to convince? The insecurity is rampant among you Mets fans-just look at the breakdown several of them experienced on our blog last night. You would have thought they were 20 games up on the Braves instead of tied-after the Braves had just dominated the first place Dodgers. You really thought you would have run away from the pack by now and you’re shocked, awed and dismayed that we’re still there. Yes, my friend, the stats do indicate a more than probable (quite honestly a PREDICTABLE) reversal of the Mets’ pitching fortunes and it’s just eating you up. All of that overachievement among your mediocre pitchers and you still can’t pull away from the Braves. Unless you really think you have the best pitching staff since 2002, then it is a most definite fact they will get much worse. Even if you really think they are that good-no that’s ok. You can choose your own therapist-we won’t make it state sanctioned for that particular delusion. As I said to National League East. We’ll empathize. Really we will-just for you. Flameout is coming and Pedro can’t get there in time to help.
By brent a.
May 5, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
When is the player of the month announced?
I’m assuming A-Rod in the AL, but what about the NL?
I think we have some strong candidates (Chipper, Kelly).
By brent a.
May 5, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Nevermind my last post.
It was Jose Reyes. Congrats to him.
By Lew
May 5, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Jason-Sounds like a plan. Dinner’s on me-well, actually, I will pay for it, not wear it. Maybe that’s what KC does with his Porterhouse? I sure hope it’s nothing weirder.
By flange1
May 5, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Metro Man,
You guys kill me! Maine is pitching like a stud. I think he will be the next big Mets pitcher. Perez is much better as well. Add Glavine to the mix and you have a nice big 3. But Hernandez is iffy, Pedro is iffy and Pelfry has not pitched well. Park is gone and now you are counting on Sosa? Well good luck on that one! I seem to recall a few comments from you last year on the quality of Mr. Sosa..
To me your year will be decided by Pedro and Hernandez. If they can pitch successfully, you have a chance to go deep into the playoffs. If not, good luck!
But further, this is a Braves blog, not a Mets blog. Don’t expect a lot of love here. You won’t get it.
By Yars
May 5, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
DOB…..I’ll have to check out early Modest Mouse. I had no idea they have been around for so long. In all honesty, their only song I’m familiar with is Float On. I’m sure you’ve heard that one. Was KJ safe on that SB attempt last night? He sure looked safe to me. I don’t think the glove even touched him.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
I’m with you Lew. Trading Gonzalez or Soriano would be hopelessly stupid. Anyone even suggesting it needs to be slapped upside the head. Both are healthy and productive.
Anyways, the Braves aren’t trading Wickman, and especially are not trading Soriano or future-closer Mike Gonzalez. Is there no one people won’t talk about being traded? Any McCann, Francoeur, Chipper Jones or Kelly Johnson rumors people want to aimlessly throw out there too? Sheesh.
David O’Brien, do you see Lerew coming up anytime soon? There has been some talk.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
What is with all the talk about trading people, prospects etc.? Do you think this is a fantasy league? Good grief, understand the the Braves are not going to trade away all of their prospects unless they really feel the need.
Bobby Cox is not one to upset the apple cart when a team is winning. Making majors moves when you are 5 games under .500 is one thing. Upsetting the team chemistry when they are winning is something else.
On having Harris attempt to steal. Some need to pay more attention to the game. The success of the base-runner is dependent on more than just the speed of the runner. The abilities of the catcher in addition to the moves and speed of the pitcher play an important role.
Harris would have been a dead duck if he had tried to steal on the Dodgers’ battery last night.
As for Andruw….. See the comment about team chemistry and being in first place, otherwise he would be batting eight until he got the message. The reason the Braves have scored so many two out runs is because they have too. Andruw is always making one of the outs. That is unless the opposing pitcher is stupid and throws anything inside and straight so he can pull the ball
By Lew
May 5, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Flange-All that talk last night about Foghat made me pull out my Savoy Brown “A Step Further” CD. Good music from around ‘68 that includes 3 of 4 members of the future Foghat, including Lonesome Dave. Check it out. Great blues/rock.
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
KC & Lew,
Very interesting conversation regarding the potential trading of The Wick. I like having a dominant bullpen as much as the next person, but it does seem to be one of the two areas of strength that we deal from (the other is our depth in the middle infield category). I hate to see Wick go, but to be honest; Soriano simply looks nasty. I thought he struck out the second hitter he faced last night with that 98 MPH fastball at the knees on the outside corner. It was called a ball, but he looked good nonetheless! Anyway, as you guys have already discussed, the pen would be in good shape if Yates continues to progress and with Soriano and Gonzo. Additionally, Paronto has looked capable of handling the 6th and even late inning situations if needed. Plus, I would like to think that a couple of our relievers that are having great years in the minors so far could step in and handle the 6th or 7th inning if needed. Don’t look now, but Devine is having a pretty darn good start to his role as the closer at Mississippi. With the potential of a healthy Boyer and/or Stockman, we could have even more depth. I know there are a couple of other relievers have fairly good seasons in the minors as well, but without broadband; I am too lazy to look them up (:
In any event, I don’t think it is out of the realm of possibility that the Braves deal from one of their positions of strength, especially considering The Wick will most likely be gone next year. If the back-end of the rotation continues to look as bad as it has and the Braves could get a quality starter, they would have to consider it, wouldn’t they?
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
May 5, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
Gil-You’re absolutely right. With what we have coming up from the farm, we’ll be realy good for years to come, even IF the payroll doesn’t get boosted much. We have players at all positions and plenty of promising pitchers, stretching from Richmond to Myrtle Beach. No need to trade anyone unless we really get blown away with an offer. Even with the poor play by the Ex-Brave who Shall Never Be Mentioned In Vain Again, we still won 10 of 12 HE played in. We’re pretty well good to go, no matter what the Mets’ fans say.
By Max Sizemore
May 5, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
David, do you know if Adam LaRoche is still taking his ADD medicine?
By Lew
May 5, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Jason-True to a point. There has to actually be a back of the rotation pitcher available to deal for. Up until now, there is no one, because EVERYONE needs pitching-just look at the Yankees who have a good bit of God’s money, as well as Steinbrenner’s. The pitching just isn’t out there to be had. When and if it does come available, I’m afraid to even speculate at the price. As I and many others have said repeatedly, check out the stats of Lerew, Trey Hodges, Dan Smith, Matt Harrison, Hanson and quite a few others scattered from A to AAA. We HAVE players capable of stepping in. There’s even someone, Hanson, I think, that has already struck out 40 batters while walking only five. FORTY K’s in about three weeks!!
By Lew
May 5, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
Jason-I just checked it out. Thomas Hanson is at Rome (A). He has had 5 starts, gone 30 IP with only 19 hits, 9 BB and 45K. That’s 45K in 30IP. Batters have only hit .178 against him. We’re locked and loaded in the years to come.
By Eric from MO
May 5, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man you keep talking about how great your 2 young hitters, Reyes and Wright, and dont get me wrong they are. However, what about our 3 young hitters. McCann is the best hitting catcher in the National League, if not in baseball. Francouer always comes up big especially with two outs. Kelly Johnson is easily one of the three best leadoff hitters in baseball. Dont get mad I include Reyes also in the best three. Metropolitan Man you talk about how much better the Mets are and stastically they are but there is a problem with the Mets. They can win all of these blowouts however they cant win the close games. Take the 2 series between the Braves and the Mets, the Mets have outscored the Braves by alot of runs. However the Braves have won both series. There are only 2 explanations for this. 1. Braves have been lucky. Which is probably unlikely considering they have won 14 of the last 15 divisons. Or 2. Braves know how to win close games. Much more likely. P.S. I would appreciate if you would stop using the shoe going to drop line. I mean talk about running a saying into the ground.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
“What is with all the talk about trading people, prospects etc.? Do you think this is a fantasy league? Good grief…”
It’s something, ain’t it? Team is winning and all people can do is throw out stupid trade suggestions. As if John Schuerholz is sitting on his computer and reading this blog for random peoples’ suggestions. I can see it now:
John Schuerholz: “Well now, I never thought about trading Wickman for a starting pitcher until KC and JasonInMaine wrote it.”
Yeah….
By bob loblaw
May 5, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
Dave does this look infected?
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
RichmondBrave, I was just looking at Thorman’s stats - he’s been good, not great. But what I like is, hard as he swings, only 8 strikeouts in 61 at bats; and he’s struck out only once in his last 10 games.
His “batting average on balls in play” is just .261, whereas “average” for the league is about .290. I’m not a saber-person, but I think this suggests that he’s been a little unlucky, and his average is likely to go up, not down. I think he looks great!
By Ron
May 5, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
If we can get Andruw goin, DAMN, and if Frenchy can stay consistent all year, and if McCann can stay healthy, HELL, forget the Best top 3 hitters, we will have the BEST TOP 6 HITTERS!!!
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Lew,
Very valid points. But, I do think the Braves would have to consider it if the right deal came along, say a solid 3rd or 4th starter. I agree that it is unlikely, but they would have to listen. Hopefully the back-end of the rotation won’t be an issue by then anyway! I have actually been paying much closer attention to the minor leaguers’ stats, and it does appear that there are a couple of guys that have earned the right for a shot if the necessity is still there.
Regards,
Jason
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Lew, yeah, just read a great review of Hanson .
He’s at least a couple of years away, but very promising.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
“As I and many others have said repeatedly, check out the stats of Lerew, Trey Hodges, Dan Smith, Matt Harrison, Hanson and quite a few others scattered from A to AAA. We HAVE players capable of stepping in. There’s even someone, Hanson, I think, that has already struck out 40 batters while walking only five. FORTY K’s in about three weeks!!”
Way too many good pitchers in the Braves’ minor league teams. And none of them would cost an arm-and-a-leg to play.
Would you rather give Anthony Lerew a chance of give the Indians Soriano for Paul Byrd? I think I’ll take Lerew, but that’s just me. Some people just HAVE to see a trade just for the sake of something new.
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
Lew,
Thanks for the info. I haven’t been paying a lot of attention to Rome, so the name is new to me. Those stats are certainly impressive! Do you or does anyone else know what type of pitcher he is projected to be i.e finesse or power? The Ks would seem to indicate a power pitcher, but not necessarily. I would love to see the Braves develop a couple of power arms!
Regards,
Jason
By Eric from MO
May 5, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
Why in the h#%! would you trade Gonzo or Soriano. We have them for two more years and pretty cheap. That would be stupid. I dont agree with trading Wickman but I can at least see the argument since he may be gone after this year. However I wouldnt trade him either, he was unhittable untill he blew that save against Florida. Also I’m not completly sold on Yates and Paronto. Alot of relievers have good stretches for a month or so in a season but that doesnt mean they will be great for the whole season. Example Reitsma, in July 2005 he was reliever of the month. Ken Ray got off to a great start last year but after a couple of months he struggled.
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Jared,
Okay, why don’t you choose the subject for us fellow fans to blog about and I will discuss it. I apologize for not getting your approval before participating in a discussion about hypothetical situations about the Braves on a Braves blog…
I will join your line of blogging…I look through other people’s posts to see if I can find something that I don’t like and blog about that. That seems productive.
Regards,
Jason
By JasonInMaine
May 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
MBATL,
Thanks for the article on Hanson. It answered some of my questions in regards to what type of pitcher he is projected to be, etc.
Regards,
Jason
By Ron
May 5, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
DOB, Is there any chance Buddy Hernandez will come up this year and replace Davies in the Starting Rotation. Hernandez has done a very good job for us a few years now in the minor leagues. He reminds me of a Tim Hudson, but not as good of course, but good enough to win the 4th or 5th Starting Rotation Spot!!!
By flange1
May 5, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
LEW,
I will check them out. I know I have some old albums here somewhere, let me see….
By Brent
May 5, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
MBATL- thanks for the link to that article. Sounds like he’ll be good.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
It seems like our LF situation is fixed for the moment, it seems like Harris is another Charles Thomas for a year. Thor seems to be the Real deal at 1stbase and if only we call Larew and Buddy Hernandez, or anybody starting in the minors, to put them in the 4th and 5th rotation spots we will be a beast this year!!!
By Yars
May 5, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Thor’s only problem is that he doesn’t play enough. Bobby should start Thor against LH pitching. I love it when Thor’s in the lineup. The boy plays hard, always hustling.
By Epinephrine
May 5, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Ron-what about Cormier?
And I would hardly call our LF situation solved after a few games. Harris is a career .240 hitter. A lot of people weren’t willing to give 2B, LF or 1B a month before declaring them disasters. Turned out only one of them was. Time actually reveals a few things.
I’d caution everyone here to remember that. Give Harris at least a few weeks before declaring any situation “solved”.
DOB-what do you think of sky blue sky? I’ve been listening to it for a few weeks now, and I have to say I find it pretty boring. Wilco is my favorite band, and I hate to say it but this is the first disappointment I have seen from them, period.
Oh well. High hopes for Spoon and Radiohead (Yorke indicated on his website they have at least some kind of rough cut cd put together). The National’s effort is pretty solid, too.
Of Montreal still leading the way for me this year.
By Chris
May 5, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Why do people feel such a need to type in first and second and crap like that for the first comments on here instead of actually talking about the Braves…pretty annoying really. And onto the Braves. I’m kinda surprised by the poor start for Andruw. It’s a contract year so I thought he’d be on fire most of the year.
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
DOB, just reading your ‘notes’ on the web site. Regarding Aybar: in thinking back about it, I guess the only one who acknowledged he has an addiction problem is his agent, or his brother, not him. I can’t really recall any statement from Aybar that he wants to get help. Hopefully, he’ll reach that point, which is absolutely essential to any hope of recovery.
Bobby’s noncommittal quote about Salty: “We’re going to keep [Saltalamacchia] where he is right now, and see what happens.” And Bobby’s acknowledgment that Salty is working out at 1B on a daily basis - just a little vindication for those of us who think he should (possibly) be moved rather than traded. Really don’t mean to start that whole conversation again, but those of us who suggested moving him to 1B NEXT YEAR were treated really rough (tears on my keyboard) yesterday.
By 3trees
May 5, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
Great game last night by the Smoltz. I really liked the “Houdini” in the bases loaded inning. Really like Gonzo’s curve. Only thing I don’t like about him so far is that follow through that goes out toward 3rd. If anyone decides to bunt up the 1st base line, he’s on.
Thanks so much to all for the heads up on the Hand, House and Holcombe. I think that Darryl Scott is in town next weekend. He’s a great player and writes pretty well.
Go Huddy, Braves!
By gotigers72
May 5, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
I know Bobby won’t do it, but he should be rotating McCann and Francoeur in the #4 spot, depending on whether a lefthander or righthander is pitching. I read where TP has said he has tried to help Andruw but that Andruw “has his own agends”. If that statement is true, if he is refusing help [and if you watch him he is, refusing to try anything except pull, pull, pull], then he should have no complaint about being moved out of the 4 hole. I know the Braves are scoring plenty of runs, but if you could score more, why not? With those top 3 hitters on base the way they have been, more productivity from another hitter makes sense.
By dannycardwell
May 5, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
just reading some of the posts suggesting we trade one of our 3 closers. you guys should bear in mind that all three are subject to arm problems. to get rid of any of them would be insane. with a starting staff only averaging 6 innings or less will need all the help we can get from the bullpen. if we cant trade wilson and or one of our surplus of infielders from the minors for one we will just call more help up from the minors. im sure cox and company will not panic anytime soon with what we have. i believe that between cormier, mcbride, and oscar one decent starter will emerge.
By Brent
May 5, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Gotigers- Andruw is a proven cleanup hitter with classic cleanup numbers. He has been susceptable to slumps his entire career, and this one is no worse than any of the others he gone through since 1997. I can guarantee you that Andruw will start listening to TP, and will start going to right field, and will start hitting. There is no reason to expect Andruw to do anything other than hit .260-.270, with 35-45 homeruns, and 110+ RBI, 350+OBP.
Moving him out of the 4 spot after 28 games would not make sense. He has been one of the most productive cleanup hitters in the league the last 2 years, and he will be again this year.
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
Brent, Sir Stealth: Yes, just a typo on my part on the leadoff homers. Should’ve been tied for SECOND in homers; Rollins has nine from leadoff spot.
It’s been changed now. I was in a hurry trying to get all those stats in before I left my house. I think (hope) that’s the only one I messed up.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this
CHURCHILL DOWNS- horses are moving to the gate. stay tuned to this blog for news on the derby - also, some baseball, music, and pie. wonder if hoss is watching?
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this
Jed, thanks much for those two recommendations. Sounds like something I really need to own, both of those singer/songwriters. Haven’t heard either of them. If it’s good enough for Lucinda, good enough for me.
And yes, I think we could see Lerew soon. Bobby hasn’t said who he plans to start Tuesday, whether it’ll be Villarreal or a callup. Wouldn’t surprise me either way….
Epinephrine, gotta say what I heard of the Wilco on the website didn’t do a lot for me, but I’ll take the rootsier, organic stuff over the experimental stuff of the “egg” album anytime. But I loved Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, and all before that, too.
And you mentioned Spoon _ great, totally underrated band. That last CD of theirs, “Gimme Fiction,” is one of the best I’ve bought in the past few years. Still play it a lot. Phenomenal CD.
And “Kill the Moonlight” was a great one, too.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
Epinephrine, Dude I did not say it was SOLVED, I said it was fixed for the MOMENT, that does not mean it is solved, never said it was solved, READ EVERYTHING I SAID NOT PIECES OF IT!!! And Cormier, I said anybody in the minors starting, I know Cormier is hurt, but basically meant the same thing, I like Cormier, but dont expect him to be great when he comes back, he aint that good of a pitcher, but probably good enough to be our 5th Starter!!!
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this
Max, I have no idea regarding laRoche and his medication. haven’t seen it mentioned in any of the stories written in pittsburgh about his slump, and braves haven’t faced them yet so i’ve not talked to him since spring training.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this
Chris, You remember Furcal a few years ago in his contract year, he struggled all the first half of the season except the last two weeks of the Fist half and then he was great for the rest of the year, maybe Andruw will get it together soon!!!
By Efrim
May 5, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this
Don’t trade anyone from the pen, we need em. It is our teams strength. Lets bring up Anthony Lerew. CARPENTER TO HAVE SURGERY AND IS OUT THREE MONTHS. Every team needs pitching!!!!!
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
hard to pick up on which one is the queen. everybody is wearing a hat! stay tuned - journalist is looking for lavendar ensemble. not that much lavendar here today. journalist finds that baseball is a much easier sport to cover. wait! is that the old journalist? hello, furman! and now, another mint julep …
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this
Standing at the cage with T.P. during batting practice today (would say BP but too many intitials), and Andruw seemed genuinely pleased and encouraged that he was hitting more to straightaway center, although he was still pulling most pitches to the seats down the left-field line….
T.P. on Salty, when I asked him what he liked about him as Salty took an impressive round of BP: “He’s a baseball player, and not but 22 years old. Big, strong, and only going to get better.”
The emphasis on baseball player is the highest form of praise for a lot of old-school baseball guys when talking about a young player. T.P. said the same thing about Lillibridge this spring.
By 74 Dawg
May 5, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
You are so right about Savoy Brown, Lew. Great album.Anybody know if its ever been released on CD? I would love to get a copy. Ex got all my old vinyl years ago-2 Peaches crates full of ‘em. Love the lyrics above DOB,keep up the good work. On the Braves: While I always like to reserve my opinion until June,It is starting to look like the Braves might very well be the NL team with the fewest holes in their over all every day guys, including bullpen. Further, this is a Bobby Cox kind of team. He has the tools to make pretty much whatever in game or game to game moves he wants. Last few years, that has not been the case- he was doing a lot of it w/ gum and band aids, or was restricted severely in his option. 30 days from now, when the grind is on and we are into the heart of the season ,the pretenders will begin to fall back. The Yankees are proving in ugly fashion what an allstar line up with out pitching is-a middle aged beer keg summer softball league. can u say mets?
By Ron
May 5, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Anybody else whatching the Mariners and Yankees game on FOX today. I am not a Yankee fan, but it would be cool to see Wang throw a PERFECT GAME today. He has went through 7 innings of perfect game. Hope he gets it. It is impressive anytime you throw a perfect game or a no hitter, but doing it to an American League team such as the Mariners is very impressive, they got some sluggers on that team!!!
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
By Eric from MO
May 5, 2007 4:17 PM
I know I have given Mccan props becasue he has proven to be a big leaguer. Francour is a work in progress that can go either way. Now you stating K. Johnson is one of the 3 best leadoff hitters in baseball is crazy…..you are basing that on 1 month plus of baseball. When he has done what Reyes has done in his career then you can say that. That goes back to the Chipper/Wright thing where you guys let me know Wright is no Chopper (thank GOD).
LEW: dont worry the METS will start witht that 20 game lead you speak of when you guys face Boston, Mets, Phils, (break for the Nats) then 1st place Brew Crew. By that time all your tunes would have change wondering when did the other SOCK drop!!!! Last year it was the JUNE SWOON that did you in, this year you guys will be crying something like well if it wasnt for the bad month of MAY, we would have made the playoffs. You guys got about 4-6 more wins for the month.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
CHURCHILL DOWNS- triple crown race report: winner is street sense.
oh, the humanity! jimmy smith hopes the queen was not scratched from the derby! when the horses came out of the gate journalist could never pick up the queen. was she hatless? where were the queen’s lavendar colors? and whither the withers? and will the queen want a rematch? and don’t they drive on the wrong side of the road in england? was elizabeth running the wrong way? oh, the humanity!
By N8
May 5, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
DOB
I would assume that Chipper when he was younger (even now I guess) and McCann would also fall into the “baseball player” category?
By N8
May 5, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man
Are you retarded? Twelve? Or BOTH?
“You guys got about 4-6 more wins for the month.”
Uh. We probably have that many JUST WHEN SMOLTZ AND HUDSON PITCH. Now even somebody so intelligent as yourself, doesn’t fully expect THIS Braves team to lose every other game started by somebody NOT name Smoltz or Hudson, do you?
Hell, as horrible as the 2006 team was, we managed “4-6” wins in June of last year. This team is NOWHERE near as pathetic as last years group was.
Nice try though. I will conceed that while this “hot run” may not be able to be kept up at the current pace, there is no way that we’re gonna roll over and go all George Michael for you guys like we did last year.
Keep dreaming though.
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
*When he has done what Reyes has done in his career then you can say that. *
MetropolitanMan, just for the record, Reyes’ career OBP is .329, and that includes his ridiculous start this year. Last year, his obp was .354, pretty mediocre for a leadoff. I think the guy is really good, but let’s not put him in Cooperstown just yet.
By Brent
May 5, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this
This is in an article on espn.com from yesterday.
*Sally Leaguer Tommy Hanson, a 20-year-old Braves right-hander, is doing fabulous for Rome. Hanson is 6-foot-6, 210 pounds and has a low-90s fastball and a solid curve and changeup. In 24 innings, he has allowed 15 hits (zero homers) with a 40-7 K/BB ratio. With his size and youth, I’d expect better stuff within the next season or two. *
By Eric from MO
May 5, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this
I have a question for everyone who keeps saying the Braves should drop Andruw in the lineup. Did the Cardinals drop Pujols in the lineup in April when he was batting under .200. NO! Did the Red Sox drop Manny in the lineup when he was batting under .200 NO! You do not give up on one of your best hitters. Andruw always start off slow. Look at his past seasons especially 2005. When the weather gets warmer Andruw will also heat up. You do not give up on a guy who will hit 40 homers and drive in 120 RBIs.
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
Hey if Cooperstown is opening the door for KJ, then Reyes was the 1st inductee.
No retards or 12 year old kids here N8, but you can start you own family of 12 year old retards if you wish..
By METS FANS
May 5, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this
Hey Necks, what don’t you get? You’re playing way over your head right now, we’re not playing up to our level yet and the best you can do is TIE us. What do you think will happen when everyone gets going for us? You’ll be checking the wild card standings every day. You know it’s coming. Tick. Tick. Tick.
By KC
May 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this
Eric from MO:
I know that Gonzo and Soriano are great young, inexpensive arms that we control for two more seasons. The only way I would trade either would be for a good young, inexpensive starter-arm that we would control for at least a couple more seasons.
It would have to be good young pitching for good young pitching… a relieve for a starter.
But before we do anything like that, I would like to see if one of our studs down at AA or AAA (Dan Smith, Harrison, etc) is ready to help us now.
Another thing I’d like to see before we resort to that is to trading anyone is to try Soriano out in the rotation. I really would. I would wait for Wickman to show he’s healthy, but honestly, when that happens… I would start stretching Soriano out and get a look at him in the rotation. I could see Smoltz helping Soriano with that transition.
I love his arm in the bullpen, but if he’s capable of being a top-of-the-rotation kind of starter, he’d be a helluva lot more valuable there than as a middle reliever. Especially when we’ve already got Gonzo to set up, and other guys like Yates and Paronto to help with the late innings. Please see Braden Looper.
We won’t know until we try.
By 74 Dawg
May 5, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this
Well said Eric, but…does anyone think the contract year thing might be affecting Andruw? just a thought.
By METS FANS
May 5, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this
And you wish you had Reyes. Don’t lie. Every team wishes they had him. Superstar.
By Eric from MO
May 5, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man lets see we will probably sweep the Nats and sweep the Phils. So there is 6 wins. Plus we will at least take 2 from the Red Sox. 2 from the Mets. Plus 2 from the Brew Crew. Now Im no Mathmatician but i do believe that is 12 wins right there. I really dont know who else we play that month and Im sure the Mets arent going to sweep every series they are playing. So I dont think we will be down 20 games.
By 74 Dawg
May 5, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this
Ah June when the Mets fans swoon…and July when they disappear completely until its time to get the Yankee hats out of the closet for the playoffs,oops maybe not this year, oh well , only another couple months until the NYFOOTBALLGIANTS start choking again.
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this
Here I’ll let somebody with some reporting/writing credentials tell you what METS fans see and braves fans fear.
And that was it, a somewhat methodical victory. Like Maine, the Mets hadn’t been overpowering, just good enough. He won on talent, the Mets did, too. They had enough. In his case, it’s an indication of how he has progressed. In theirs, it’s indication of their superiority. They still aren’t playing particularly well. And their record is 18-10.
“You get by with what you’ve got,” Willie Randolph said.
His words applied to both pitcher and team.
Marty Noble is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
So when they actually heat up, then you will really wimper becasue you jokes think this is the best and we are over achieving, you silly brave foes have no clue. I follow both teams, not just one.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
Metro Man, yeah Reyes is the Best Leadoff man in Baseball with his 329 OBP, 115 career BB, 240 Strike Outs in 464 games, which equal almost 3 years, almost 3 years is a long career, he has done it all in almost 3 years, the Hall is gonna come a callin for Reyes any minute now. KJ is not too bad either dude, he has 67 BB, 91 Strike Outs, 371 OBP, in 114 games, not even a year, Not too bad of numbers and he is basically a rookie, dude!!! Oh yeah KJ is only a year older than Reyes, look it up idiot!!!
By Alex
May 5, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
You gotta forgive MetroMan, b/c after having his team dominated for 14 years in the division, he’s used to celebrating and enjoying Braves loses more than he does when his NY Muts win a fraking game. It’s hard to get out of the habit of “hatin’ on the Braves”. Quite frankly, it is kind of sad, as instead of celebrating the Muts he’s focused on posting on a Braves blog justifying why his NY Muts are so great and how the Braves will fold like a cheat suit all over again. Get a life!
Go Braves!
By Ron
May 5, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this
Hey Yankees, how yall all doin up north!!! I sure am glad I aint no DAMN Yankee, I would probably shoot myself in the F*** head, Glad to be a Redneck. Thanks for sayin hey Mets fans!!!
By Lew
May 5, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this
74Dawg-Yes, it is definitely on CD, because I have a copy. I no longer have vinyl and I retired my cassette deck. I think almost all Savoy Brown are available. Check Amazon, they now deal with subcontractors who have some great used CD’s. I’ve been using them for several years and have never had a major problem. You’d be shocked at how much you haven’t seen in years is available. Or, check with Ella Guru in Atlanta. Don will set you up real well.
By KC
May 5, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
I am fascinated by the thought processes of Mets fans. I am going to call a friend of mine the psychology lab at the University of GA to see if we can begin a study of some kind. But for now, in order to better understand Mets fans, I’ve been trying to think like one… you know… put myself in their shoes. Let me see if I can pull this off. I will now attempt to speak from the perspective of…
The Quintessential METS FAN…
Hey you southern Braves fans people!!, we’re gonna win because Chipper’s going to get hurt, Hudson is the only good pitcher you have, Smoltz won’t last, everyone in your bullpen’s will have their arm fall off, and Kelly Johnson is a flash in the pan.
Also, David Wright is the greatest all-around 3rd baseman in the history of the game, Jose Reyes will steal 250 bases and will score 1,286 runs this year, and Pedro will be back any day now and will post an ERA of 0.00 through the end of the season. Also, John Maine will win the Cy Young this year and every subsequent year through 2019. OH… and we have the greatest stable of young studly prospects in our farm system that the world has ever seen. Plus, we have all the money in the world to sign whoever we want.
THAT’S WHY WE’LL WIN!!!!
Does that just about cover it?
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this
Okay…Good top half of inning one. Nice pick off by Hudson
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this
dont worry the METS will start witht that 20 game lead you speak of when you guys face Boston, Mets, Phils, (break for the Nats) then 1st place Brew Crew.
Not quite the same as what you wrote Ericfrom MO.
By parks
May 5, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this
LMAO KC
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this
What is it with you Mets fans? Can’t find a decent blog about your own team?
You guys are so damn insecure it’s pathetic. The Muts are suppose to win the division, you are not the underdogs.
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this
In my braves Shoes:
Man the braves are the bomb, we won 14 titles and 1 stinking WS. Smolzt is the greatest player since Micheal Jordan, Chipper is better than A-Rod, Hudson is the CY young of both leagues, K. Johnson is better than all leadoff men whoever played the game. I wish Langerhans was here, or Derosa, or Sheffield, or JD Drew, or K. Lofton, or Furcal, or Millwood, J. Lopez…….. These are the guys that make the braves so great…….Only in the Metro ATL area. Get a grip bravos, you are full of yourselves from past accomplishment/failures. No rite of passage for you, that ended last year.
By ernesto
May 5, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this
MetroMan - Micheal Jordan, great basketball player, not so good baseball player.
So Smoltz is much better than Jordan.
Not that anything you were spouting made a lot of sense, but I thought I’d help you out there, now admit you’re realy a Braves Fan and just get on with it. You’re fascinated with them. You love them. It’s all good.
By Brent
May 5, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Metro- you are living in 1986. At least we have a title in the last 20 years. You guys have won the division once since its inception. Oh, but you won a wild card. I guess you have us there. we have never won a wild card. so the muts must be better.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this
why talk mets? the dodgers are in town. beat l.a. these were feared and loathsome dodgers long before anyone worried about the mets. and it is cinco de mayo and what will this bullpen do to celebrate? burritos? this is a very large bullpen and the take-out bill must be troublesome.
now, hat dance … only appropriate at the ballpark on cinco de mayo and also in tribute to the queen of england who is in this country and digs hats.
By ernesto
May 5, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
MetMan - the reason you there are so many Braves we wonder if we should have kept - Schmidt, Glavine, Javvy, Furcal, Dye, etc is b/c our system keeps producing such great talent. But you guys produced ummm, well, some guys you have now…but who exactly would you be missing? Good thing you have so much more money to spend, kind of makes things even.
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this
Huson is dealing once again. What’s his pitch count through 3, 25 or so?
By KC
May 5, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this
Ultimately, these two offenses (the Met’s and the Braves’) are both excellent. If the Mets have an offensive advantage right now, it’s not a large one. The Mets and Braves will both finish in the top 3 in the league in runs scored this season.
When all is said and done, I think Atlanta’s bullpen will have proven a little more impressive than NY’s, but they are both excellent pens. Especially when the Mets get their criminal-cheater-druggy back in the pen.
I really think it does come back to starting pitching between these two teams.
The Mets are riding the success of great performance from reasonably unexpected sources…
Oliver Perez’s ERA right now is about half of what it’s been over the past 2 seasons. El Duque’s ERA to this point is down around 2 full runs from last year, and John Maine is pitching like a Cy Young contender. Mets fans, listen… I’m impressed. I am. But can all of those things really continue to happen???
If so, I believe the Mets win the division, but I think it’s a lot to hope for that all 3 of those guys are going to continue to pitch this well. Right now, I think the fate of the division will be decided by how much the performance of the Mets 2-4 starters falls off as the season goes along. It WILL fall off. They can’t all continue to pitch at the level they’ve been at. Their ERA’s will climb. It’s just a matter of how much.
The Braves have the best 1-2 punch in baseball at the top of their rotation right now, and I think Chuck James will settle in and will be a fine #3 starter. But their rotation isn’t as deep as the Mets right now (I can’t believe I’m saying that). But the Braves could put their destiny back in their own hands by strengthening of the back of the rotation. If they can find a way to do that, the Mets will have no advantage over the Braves. None. I hope that happens soon… especially before Pedro gets healthy.
By Send Money
May 5, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this
I’d like to see some stats on opposing teams pitch counts.This patient approach to hitting has many good points, getting in the pitchers head and wearing them down may be underrated.
By Brent
May 5, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this
KC- well said
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this
Send Money, Good post, I was thinking the same thing. KJ, Edgar, Chipper, & McCann really work a pitcher. You have to nibble at them or risk being smacked around.
That approach will take a good starter out of the game an inning or so early.
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
Inetresting:
Use Soriano in the rotation….
That sounds like a decent idea. Definitely worth some thought. If (Hopefully when) Wickman gets back to full form that’d be something to consider for Bobby I hope. Gonzo might be a injury waiting to happen with his delivery though.
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
Man, Kelly should have made that play. At least he recovered for one. Something tells me he’s not going to make that mistake again though. He seems to pick up on things quick, huh.
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
KC, I think we’ve got 2 months to try to solve the “back of the rotation” problem from within, from among Davies, Redman, Villarreal, Lerew, Reyes, Harrison, and maybe Soriano. Maybe some other guys from the minors. If that doesn’t work by July 31, you think about doing something.
If none of that works, then you give up some assets and try to get a starter. But there’s no rush - we’re winning now. As much fun as it would be to have another back-end starter, you know in this market we’d have to give up a lot to get it.
If we can reach the playoffs with Smoltz, Hudson and James, and our bullpen intact, I’ll take my chances.
By ernesto
May 5, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this
Soriano to the rotation is not a smart idea- I hope it doesn’t happen. What’s wrong with having a dominant lefty and a dominant righty at the back end of hte game.
I love having a pen!!!
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this
SendMoney, Kelly J. is sixth in the NL in lowest percentage of swings at first pitches (13.0). Pujols (6.8) swings at the fewest in the league.
Francoeur, after leading the majors at 52 percent first-pitch swings last season, has trimmed it to 42 this season.
Johnny Estrada, by the way has swung at the most in the NL this season (53.7) and Marcus Giles (43.3) is fourth.
By ERIC
May 5, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this
Thank God for willie harris! he is a everyday LF. and 2 stolen bases tonight shows Cox Knows what he’s got in harris. Now if We can secure frenchy and just get the idea of andrew stayin’ and start get ready for a new Jones boy and thats brandon jones the most underrated prospect we got. Dob:Hank III & Scott H. Biram are comin to the ATL sometime this summer! iF dont fall on a game night or road trip lets have a good ole man in black/braves blog get together! And for yall who have never heard of Scott Biram he’s a one man band guitar pickin blues demon!and the best live preformer i’ve ever seen check this guy out!!!
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
Wasting Harris’ lead off double hurts.
By N8
May 5, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
Does anybody still miss Langerhans?
Hey Metropolitan Man:
Check this out.
Reyes, Easly, Beltran, Wright, Delgado, Green Chavez.
That’s what? 2 out of your Starting 8 regulars that were actually brought up through your system?
Johnson, Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, McCann, Francoeur, Thorman, Harris.
That’s what? 6 out of our Starting 8 regulars that were brought up through ours?
Hmmmm. Looks like so far, the Wilpon’s money ALMOST can buy a team as good as the one our scouting and developing has done, huh?
Dang, if only we STILL had Ted’s money to go along with our incredible knack for eyeballing talent.
On a SOUR note. Judging by Hudson’s last two bunt attempts (or lack there of) that have pretty much cost us at least one run, I MIGHT have to start ranting on fundamentals again. YIKES.
Did I mention that this Willie Harris guy seems to be an ideal #8 hitter for us?
By N8
May 5, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
That was an ABSOLUTELY horrible idea by Andruw to throw that ball. Not exactly a Gold Glove caliber by Thorman over there.
Why throw that ball?
By N8
May 5, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this
Ernesto
Couldn’t agree with you more about Soriano and Gonzalez.
DOB, please tell me that this isn’t even on the radar for Bobby and JS (putting Soriano in the rotation). Or do they REALLY have that much confidence in Paranto and Yates, once Wickman gets back. Quite honestly, between you and me, I just as soon have Soriano (or Gonzalez) closing rather than Wickman, even when he comes back from the DL. Wickman’s been nails for the most part before the injury recently, but I’ve always been partial to a closer that strikes guys out (or has the capability of doings so). But that’s just me.
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this
ideal #8, no I think maybe a ideal #1 if he keeps hitting and stealing. He’s just stuck in #8. No way I see getting him penciled in anywhere else. Really. We’re actually hitting well enough that a guy hitting .538 (with some speed) can’t seem to get moved up. When’s the last time we could actually say that? We haven’t had a great leadoff hitter since furcal. Even then we could always use another to of the order hitter.
This teams got something this year. Add that to the fact we might have two aces out there plus Chucky and whoever, should be a good year. Think about the playoffs (Diamondbacks 2001 :KC 2:20) as well.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 5, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
headline in the pittsburgh paper:
“Adam bomb? LaRoche, Pirates grasping for answers”
“Fans boo struggling first baseman in 7-1 loss to Cubs”
oh, the humanity! the story is depressing. laroche is struggling mightily. dropped in the order - lost a start to a rookie 1b. on and on. sad.
now, did someone wake bob for the game?
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this
Speaking of the hitting: Where’s it at tonigh?
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this
BabyGoatEater
I’m not sure how you can argue with KJ at the top of the order. He doesn’t have the speed that Furcal had (has), nor Lofton. But KJ (through one month of the season is much more patient than Furcal has EVER been. I’ve YET to see him swing for the fences, much less overswing.
WHY IN THE HELL IS HUDSON STILL IN THIS GAME?
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this
**By BabyGoatEater
“Speaking of the hitting: Where’s it at tonigh?”
The same place it’s been all year, when we face a pitcher that doesn’t give up the long ball.
Lowe has given up ONE all year. Coincidence? I don’t think so.
By BabyGoatEater
May 5, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this
N8
I wasn’t arguing for Willie to be moved up I was just sayin we’re actually hitting so well that there’s no place for him. I agree Kelly is a great leadoff hitter. I wouldn’t want anyone else in the majors up there right now (including Reyes, METWHOEVEUARE).
Have to agree again that Kelly is a better lead-off than Furcal. He gets on base more. It seemed like every game, we needed a run, Furcal hit a soft grounder to short, and BAM we’re down a out before Chipper and Andruw could get up. Not so much with Kelly.
By Send Money
May 5, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this
There’s another example of Kelly’s baserunning, he just does it right.
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this
BabyGoatEater
Then I appologize. I took your comment as you saying Harris should be batting leadoff instead of KJ.
My Bad.
Now that Chipper struck out, is there ANYBODY else out there that still disagrees with me that McCann should be hitting cleanup instead of Andruw.
Chipper K’s. And you can just feel the week dribbler on the first pitch coming from Andruw. Rally officially KILLED.
By Send Money
May 5, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this
Man Broxton’s a beast !!
By Jared
May 5, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this
Two things 1) Why does BC continue to give Woodward AB’s? He needs to be released 2) If Andruw can’t learn to hit the ball to right field then he needs to be benched or traded. This is getting ridiculous. He isn’t worth resigning if he can’t hit higher than .240
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
Andruw is only SLIGHTLY better, IMO, than Langerhans was before he got traded. What a shame.
You got Kelly Johnson who takes FOUR STRAIGHT PITCHES for a walk. Then you’ve got your 20 million dollar to be man, HACKING AWAY.
HAH! He wanted to swing at that pitch that was 3 feet above his head. He ACTUALLY “twitched”. Unreal. He reaches for an outside pitch, while sticking his a$$ out towards 3B. What an approach.
He absolutely has NO CLUE right now. Maybe McCann should give HIM some advice the same way he did Francoeur.
Did I mention how glad I am to have Andruw “protecting” Chipper right now?
Honest to goodnees. If Bobby actually made his lineup on a daily basis, based on who currently “looks good” at the plate. Andruw would be batting 8th. No. Really. I’m serious.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Two things 1) Why does BC continue to give Woodward AB’s? He needs to be released 2) If Andruw can’t learn to hit the ball to right field then he needs to be benched or traded. He is not worth resigning if he is going to hit .240 every year.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Oh well, tough game so far. Secret to Betamit’s success is being in Atlanta.
By meansonny
May 5, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Did andruw shorten his stance a hair?
He didn’t seem quite so off balance that at bat against a hard thrower
By Lew
May 5, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this
Gee-Where have we heard that before? LaRoche being booed by the home team fans. Sound familiar?
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this
Jared
“If Andruw can’t learn to hit the ball to right field then he needs to be benched or traded.”
He hasn’t learned in 11 years. Why would he now? But everybody gives him a flier because he hits the long ball. Welcome to baseball in the new millenium.
DOB, I’m gonna go out on a limb and say that TP wouldn’t put Andruw’s hitting approach into the “baseball player” category, would he? LOL!
By Jared
May 5, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this
Sry for the double post
By Metropolitan Man
May 5, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
CRICKET,CRICKET, CRICKET, CRICKET, CRICKET………
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
Man, making that hile deeper…
By A.J.
May 5, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
N8: I was actually just thinking that. Not that I’m the first to have that idea or anything, but Andruw just doesn’t hit like a cleanup hitter. He swings like a No. 5 or 6.
He is really p** me off with his head off the ball swinging so hard he can’t see nonsense.
I like how the announcers say “Let’s see where Martin wants it.”
Martin wants it outside BECAUSE ANDRUW CAN’T PULL IT. And of course if Andruw can’t pull it, ANDRUW CAN’T HIT IT.
It is so pathetic, and the things you hear about him saying things like “They aren’t paying me to hit singles.” (to Terry Pendleton when he told him to hit it the other way)
(By the way, Jeff Kent just did an Andruw impression on the high 3-0 fastball from Yates).
The fact that this guy won’t try to hit one the other way with two on, two out, and the team down by 2 in the eighth. Plus he’s going against a guy throwing 99, not much chance to pull that.
It is just SO annoying because it’s SO PAINFULLY OBVIOUS why he is doing so bad in these situations.
I don’t know when he decided he has to swing this hard (apparently he decided long ago he couldn’t hit it the other way), but it’s annoying too.
I don’t care if he hits 50 homers if they are the only 50 hits he has all year.
I don’t care if he tries to pull every pitch and swings like an idiot when it’s none on, but with two out and two on, your job is to hit the ball.
I’d rather see McCann or Francoeur hit 4th over him.
The good thing is that if he keeps up like this he won’t make big money this offseason wherever he goes.
By AMG
May 5, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
Andruw is a good “bad ball” hitter. It would be interesting to see his numbers againts some of the top pitchers in the league… He will never hit for average.
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
We’ve been so darned good with RISP, especially with 2 outs that tonight probably seems much worse than it is.
Gotta tip your cap to Lowe. He looked outstanding. Tonight it’s the Dodgers getting hits with RISP.
But seriously, if Andruw doesn’t change his approach, he’s GOTTA BE DROPPED in the batting order. If Bobby doesn’t realize it, it’s time for an intervention.
DOB, in the blog story you stated:
“Yes, it’d be scary to think what they might have done with Andruw also crushing during this stretch.”
I’ll “one up” you on that comment. While what you said is OBVIOUSLY correct, imagine how scary our line up would be for opposing pitchers if McCann was batting 4th, Francoeur 5th and Andruw 6th. That would essentially make the top of our order 5 deep.
I realize that when it’s all said and done, Andruw will probably have better numbers than Frenchy, (maybe not, though). But RIGHT NOW, both McCann and Francoeur (hell even Thorman) would be a better option in the Cleanup spot than Andruw.
Yes. We’re winning more than we are losing, but we could be winning MORE if we didn’t have the rally killer batting cleanup. Look what’s happened with one rally killer (Langerhans) eliminated from the equation. I’m not saying eliminate Andruw from the equation, but let’s at least try and LIMIT the ammount of rallies he can kill.
Well obviously this game is out of hand. What DOB stated we DIDN’T want to happen is upon us. Asking Davies to help us secure a series victory. YIKES.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
Once again Tim Hudson gets screwd. I hope the lack of run support doesn’t get to his head…..Where is Blaine Boyer? He is surely better than Colyer. Who cares if he is left handed if he can’t get anyone out?
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this
AJ
“The good thing is that if he keeps up like this he won’t make big money this offseason wherever he goes.”
Unfortunately you’re wrong. Somebody is going to seriously OVERPAY for a 30 year old guy that has NO IDEA how to hit. HACK AND JACK, baby. It’s not just a baseball swing…….IT’S A LIFESTYLE!
He makes Dave Kingman’s approach when he played, look “selective”.
By gotigers72
May 5, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
How much longer? How much longer can the Braves afford to leave a .235 hitter in the clean up spot? He left 5 more runners on tonight. Could he not figure out thaat Lowe wasn’t gonna give him anything on the inner half. Why would someone who has a chance to be one of the greatest players in the game not listen to his coach and try to go the other way? THEN and only then will he get pitches on the inner half. Anything he gets there now is a mistake. he’ll hit mistakes, but so will any other .235 hitter. Pitiful.
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
Did Chip just call the pitcher JUAN VALDEZ?
Love it!
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
Quick poll Braves fans….
Who is the last guy you want to see come up to bat when we need a clutch hit or men on base?
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
Just a sidebar on a losing night - nice double from Thorman off a lefty…. maybe he should get more chances.
By Braveheart
May 5, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
Ernesto said: MetroMan - Micheal Jordan, great basketball player, not so good baseball player.
Totally disagree. He hit only .202. This after not playing baseball for 15 freaking years and then trying to play again at such an extremely high level of baseball as AA. All these pitchers who were the best players and hitters on their high school teams can not even manage to bat .200 even though it is part of how they make a living and even though they have been playing baseball for their entire lives.
Smoltz? Great baseball player. Great athelete. Great competitor. Would he hit .202 if sent down to AA to play everyday as a right fielder? Probably not.
Jordan was not a great baseball player after taking 15 years off from baseball and then trying to make the jump straight to AA, totally bypassing A ball and rookie leagues and years and years of training that all of these guys get. AND he still managed to hit .202 at freaking AA.
Yunel Escobar, the dude so many on here drool all over and want up here playing, only hit .264 at 23 years old after playing baseball from the time he was a tot straight to when he was 23 years old.
Did you know that Michael Jordan hit 3 home runs in AA in 1994? How many did Escobar hit? 2. Repeat 2. Two freaking home runs but you, Ernesto, are probably one of the ones who wanted him up here after ST.
Martin Prado, another one of the beloved guys on here, only hit 3 homers last year in the minors.
Tony Pena, Jr., who has spent his entire life playing baseball and being trained by people like his daddy, is not much of a better hitter than Jordan was after taking 15 years off from playing such a highly skilled sport like baseball.
I personally know many guys who were just the greatest thing around when I was growing up and competing against them in high school and college and summer ball who never even made it to AA, their careers and hopes and dreams being dashed in A ball, or, if lucky to make it to AA, who barely hit better than Jordan even though they were can’t miss prospects when they were growing up and had played baseball their entire life without interruption.
Was Jordan a great baseball player? He probably was - if he had played baseball instead of basketball when he was 17. To be able to hit .202 in your early 30s after taking 15 years at such a high level as AA is actually quite an unbelievable accomplishment.
He is lucky he could hit the ball at all to be honest with you. For those of you who have not played baseball in 15 years, have you tried going out there and hitting at least 75 mph puss, or tried to judge a curve, a slider, a changeup, or some wild AA pitcher who is throwing 99 mph and has no idea whether the pitch is going to land in your earhole or not, or trying to judge a fly ball, or trying to catch a wicked line drive or ground ball screamed at you. Have you? If you have, then you know it is pretty ugly and scary and you would appreciate Jordan for being able to at least do what he did in AA.
To knock Jordan is pretty darn ignorant in my opinion. It actually shows a complete lack of experience from you on how darn hard it is to actually hit .200 in the minor leagues, even for the best prospects.
And don’t knock me saying that I love Michael Jordan because I actually hate the guy. He knocked my beloved Knicks out of the playoffs every freaking year in the 1990s. Just from experience and the can’t miss kids I grew up with, I know very well what a major accomplishment it was to take 15 years off and still be able to manage to hit at least .200 at such a high level like AA baseball.
By Jared
May 5, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
Why not let Salty hit?
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
gotigers72
It’s gonna last ALL SEASON. Hell I wouldn’t be surprised if Boras and the union have threatened “action” if the Braves drop him, thus diminishing his “value” on the upcoming free agent market. LOL! Of course I’m kidding, but you had to think about it, didn’t you.
Anybody out there up for a “worthless” 3 run HR to pad the stats for Craig Wilson?
By KC
May 5, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this
LEW, RORY, and a few others:
I just wanted to say… “You were right, I was wrong”. But I realize my folly now.
Willie Harris sucks. He has no place on this team. =)
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
MBATL
Nice point about Thorman. I was thinking the same thing. Just been griping too much about Andruw to interupt and say something nice about Thorman.
It’s more fun ripping Andruw. I wonder how much it would cost to put a mural of his “hit chart” on the wall of his crib? Maybe if he actually woke up every day and saw as he was walking to the bathroom that he pulls everything, that would…….Aw. Never mind.
By MEB
May 5, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
N8… please give it a rest. Please!
By N8
May 5, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
Are you kidding me?
Are we gonna come back in this game due to a missed call at 1B on the Diaz ground ball?
If I was the Dodgers manager, I’d intentionally walk Renteria, then do the same to Chipper, walking in a run making it a 6-5 game. But that would bring Andruw to the plate. Thus ending the rally.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 5, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
Nice little rally… To deep a hole to get out of.
By Braveheart
May 5, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this
Oh, please, Willie C. Harris has given the team a much needed lift so far. It won’t last. His track record makes that clear. Calm down, KC. 5 games does not a career make.
By MBATL
May 5, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
All the negatives are amplified when you lose. Lowe pitched a great game against us tonight; had our best hitters pounding the ball into the ground. I didn’t think that would happen, but it did. And the Dodgers’ bullpen is really good. They’re not in first place by accident.
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Gil, I’ll take Frenchy in the clutch, KJ would be a close second.
Andruw looks this bad most games, it’s just not as obvious when the Braves are scoring 6-8 runs & winning.
He struggles badly against quality pitching. It seems like every AB he has guys on in front him, he should have 30 Plus RBI’s already, maybe more.
Does he really think a good pitcher is coming inside on him? Hell even the bad ones have figured out to stay away, not too far though, he has stopped swinging at the pitch 3 feet off the plate as he use to.
He’s just stubborn I guess. His brain obviously processes stategy based on him shading & moving the outfield in any given situation. His thinking is based on experience & instinct. Where is this thinking at the plate?
By KC
May 5, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
Braveheart: I’m sure he won’t continue to play at this level. But he’s proven his value, even if that’s in a Pete Orr-like role. A couple weeks ago, I was criticized for suggesting he could offer as much or more than Woodward or Orr. I’m confident that I’ve been vindicated to that measure.
By gotigers72
May 5, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this
Lowe did indeed pitch a fine game. But he made enough mistakes to where the Braves should have scored more than 1 off of him.
Bobby gives high praise to Tyler Yates, but I just don’t see it. He is too inconsistent. You don’t have to take my word for it, just look at his ERA - 4.63. Is that the ERA of a pitcher that deserves high praise?
By Ron
May 5, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this
It is the Same type of Pitchers that we struggle against, we always struggle agaist Lowe, ALWAYS. This is why we have only 1 World Championship, because we will always come Short against very good pitchers, and our pitchers always come up a little bit short, because of the offense, It does not matter who is playin with the Braves, we struggle against MONEY pitchers, EVERY SINGLE TIME!!!
By N8
May 5, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this
MEB
“N8… please give it a rest. Please!”
Give WHAT a rest. Just let me know when I’m speaking out of line when describing Andruw’s approach at the plate as compared to KJ, Renteria, Chipper, McCann and yes, occasionally Francoeur.
Sarcastic, overbearing, obnoxious as it may be. Sometimes the truth just plain old hurts, doesn’t it?
I’ll give it a rest, just as soon as he starts hitting like a guy that:
a) Is in a walk year, and who’s agent is threatening to “break the bank”, like Boras has basically said.
b) Would like to finish his career in Atlanta at a discounted rate. Because with this type of offensive output, JS would be insane to even give him a contract with the SAME salary his current one is structured with.
Win or lose, Andruw is lost at the plate, there is NO denying that. If THAT is what you are telling me to “give a rest”, than you need to take the beer goggles of and get back to reality.
Sorry to burst your bubble.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this
Somebody on this blog earlier said we should bench or trade Andruw. Andruw is way too valuable defensively to bench, bat him 7th or 8th, but no way you bench him!!!
By N8
May 5, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this
Ron
Yup. Couldn’t of said it better myself. But I’m trying to “give it a rest”.
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this
KC Harris has a lot of heart, sometimes that’s the difference between contributing & playing an intregal part in a team’s success.
Harris brings a lot to the table. He’s already produced twice as much in five games or so than Langerhans did all season. His defense is not a liability either as some claimed it would be.
If he can bat around .260-.280 he will produce a lot off runs & do the job nicely.
Now if JS can fix the back of the rotation & the bench I would feel even more comfortable.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this
Maybe if we get to the Playoffs, we want see a pitcher like Lowe, Oliver Perez, Cain, Willis. People like that because we just cant hit them enough to beat them, there are more, but the list would go on for awhile!!!
By meansonny
May 5, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this
Fast as balls,
Get off your high horse. How many RBI’s does Andruw have? How many does the NL leader have?
He’s struggled the past 2 games. He’s a streaky hitter.
I’m not against playing with the lineup. McCann will probably be the cleanup next year. No harm in swapping MCann and Andruw for a few games. But do nt pull this Andruw doesn’t contribute BS.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this
N8, Dude dont give it a rest, Im tired of the Met dudes on this blog, Keep sayin stuff man, I would rather you type stuff I agree with than some of these other folks on this blog!!!
By Coach
May 5, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this
Johnson .320 , Renteria .331 , C.Jones .304 , A.Jones .235 , McCann .311 , Francoeur .301 ………..Anybody want to tell me whats wrong with this picture ?
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this
Ron, not to disagree, but you wrote: “It is the Same type of Pitchers that we struggle against, we always struggle agaist Lowe, ALWAYS.”
Before tonight, Lowe was 0-3 with a 7.71 ERA in four starts against the Braves since June 29, 2002, including last year’s season opener when he got shelled for nine hits and eight runs (seven earned) in five innings.
By David O'Brien
May 5, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this
I keep waiting for Andruw to have a breakout game, a two-homer, five-RBI game like he’s always had in the past to end these slumps. Hitting .235 with five homers and 31 K.
And as solid as 20 RBI seems on the surface, batting fourth in this lineup it’d be almost impossible to have FEWER than that, provided you’re doing anything at the plate whatsoever. I mean, those guys in front of him are ALWAYS in scoring position….
How ‘bout that _ I write in the blog about those three having at least 6 walks/hits combined in all but one of the last 13 games, and tonight they don’t do it. Five tonight.
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this
meansonny,
I’m not on a high horse, nor did I say Andruw didn’t contribute. I’m saying he is not contributing as much as he should based on the # of chances he has had.
Yes I’m well aware Andruw is a “streaky” hitter, has been his entire career. I’m just pointing out he does not give himself the best chance to succeed at the plate with his approach. Am I wrong?
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this
Won’t be long before the Muts loons are over here, they are beating Webb 6-0.
By Ron
May 5, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this
DOB, I could have sworn that Lowe has always beatin up on us, but I believe what you wrote. Maybe it was against another pitcher!!!
By MrC
May 5, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this
Fight Time, BABY
By meansonny
May 5, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this
F.A.B.
You’re right to have your opinion.
If Andruw had never carried this team on his shoulders before, then I could see the mob mentality dumping on him right now.
But he just came off a 7 game stretch hitting .400. And he’s walking a ton.
Tonight, a lot of hitters didn’t come through. Andruw was just another face in the crowd.
The bullpen also let us down. But they had been so hot as of late, they were bound to have an off night.
By fastasballs
May 5, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this
meansonny,
Yes Andruw’s walks are up but unfortunately so are his stikeouts.
What he did in 2005 was amazing. He carried that team damn near by himself at times. He’s more than capable of that now, so I guess that is why I get down on him some. I wouldn’t say a word if he took what the pitcher gave him & made an out. A hard hit grounder to the right side or a deep fly to right would be such an improvement.
Believe me I want Andruw to put up the best #’s he is capable of. I want him to stay, but not at a cost that would hurt the team. There a few teams out there that will still give him the 17-20 mil a year even if he hits .235 35 & 105.
By Bob, journalist
May 5, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, missed the Derby and start of the game but I woke up in the top of the fourth and it looks as if the Dodgers did too …
Quote Sniplet of the Year … “with cleanup hitter Andruw Jones still trying to find his stride” … David, if he can’t find sonething that big, we’re definitely in trouble!
Gil’s point regarding the importance of Chemistry is well taken but, Andruw’s problem is directly related to Physics … and possibly ego.
It might be argued that both Chemistry and Physics would be well served were Andruw to be hitting eighth instead of fourth. We’re winning inspite of his being in the fourth slot, not because of it.
I was poor in Chemistry and worse in Physics, but I would think that the Manager replacing a nonproductive player in a key spot of the order with a proven, emerging star who’s capable of doing the job … could be expected to well received.
Of course, one might argue that Chemistry, Physics and the team would be well served were Andruw to be hitting, regardless of his spot in the order.
Actually, with Harris in the lineup, it might be better to have Andruw hit ninth … the pitcher would be able to move Willie up and Andruw would be protected by Kelly.
Selah
By Step Right Up and Greet the First-Place Mets
May 6, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this
Jorge Sosa pitches shutout ball into the 7th. That one’s gotta hurt, huh, Braves Nation?
Looks like all Jorge needed all along was some decent coaching.
By Bristol
May 6, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this
The thing about Andruw is, when he’s hot, he sees and hits everything. He hits it a long way, too. Unfortunately, when he’s not hot, he looks like a complete moron, corkscrewing himself into the batter’s box, trying to pull every f-ing ball that he might possibly lay a bat on. Simply put, he just isn’t a smart batsman.
By Ron
May 6, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this
Has people not watched Andruw this season, because some of you dont get it, the times he has hit homeruns, the Dumbass pitchers give him a pitch for him to groove. He has stunk it up this year offensively and most people on this blog knows that!!!
By ElbravoX
May 6, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this
AJ is not #4 hitter, he is a great pull hitter who fails to adjust during games, during series. He is a 5th or six hitter. Because of Chipper oft injured past, AJ had to be there. With 1-6 as it stands, he is not the best choice. The reluctance of Cox not making a necessary change can be rooted in the fact that AJ is a free agent and he does not want to stir the pot. Cox and AJ should both realize that what’s better for AJ is better for the Braves. AJ has a track record, he will his coin regardless, time to put the team first an AJ in the 6th slot. GO BRAVES.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this
I wouldn’t be opposed to having Willie hit third … possibly increasing Chipper’s RBI potential; moving Andruw to seventh, followed by Frenchy and/or the pitcher. The notion of having a power hitter in front of Kelley is just one of my longstanding, crazy, radical ideas.
By Disciple of the Rev. Shaun
May 6, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this
We all know that RBIs are an overrated statistic, O’Brien. Andruw’s OBP and FAH (falls on a* hacking) numbers are as high as at any time in his career. Taking what the pitcher gives you for the occasional single to right is a loser’s game. Small ball stinks! Better to hit the occasional three-run bomb to left and look downright silly swinging out of your shoes and missing every time the pitcher doesn’t make a mistake. Because strikeouts are productive outs!
The numbers don’t lie, O’Brien. Join me in my basement lair sometime and I’ll illuminate you.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this
*Bristol *, Simply put, he just isn’t a smart batsman … it’s not a question of simplicity … complicatedly put, it’s still true!
By N8
May 6, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this
Disciple of the Rev. Shaun
Now THAT was funny.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this
Bobby missed a good chance when he didn’t use Langerhans as a pinchhitter for Andruw before he was traded … it might have done them both a world of good!
Good night Gracie …
By Ron
May 6, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this
Is anybody else a little worried about our Pitching Coach. Mcbride does not have control, Davies, enough said, our bullpen last year was beyond pathedic, not sayin Leo could have fixed it all, but seems like he could have fixed it a little bit. Sosa was awesome in Leo Mazzone’s last season as the Pitching Coach, and then in McDowell’s first season as our Pitching Coach Sosa stunk it up, and now look at him, what the hell is up with that s**!!! Is anybody else worried that our Pitching Coach may not be getting it done, who else agrees with me? Maybe I am just overreacting I dont know, somebody explain it to me.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this
Who first sits Andruw down for a talk, Bobby or Boras? I’m hoping it’s Dad.
Perfect weather for the Rally ‘Tard tonight. Unfortunately, Tyler was still a little down from the Don Ho memorial. Shoots, brah, we get ‘em next time.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this
Andruw’s best overall season was 2000. How old was he, 22 or 23?
I think he’s watching too many tapes from 2005 & 2006.
He had career highs in runs/122 , Hits/199, 2b/36 TB/355 Ave/.303 & a career low of 100 strikeouts. Also 36 HR’s & 104 RBI.
With those #’s batting clean up in this line up would be deadly. The HR’s & RBI’s would increase just because of better pitches to hit, more balls in play & more base runners on in front of him.
I’m also fairly sure all 199 hits did not go to left field & he was not hitting clean up at that time.
He’s only 30, not 38 so his #’s should be improving or static at the worst.
By Bravo Nam
May 6, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this
Impressive
The bloody Mets…have to give credit where credit is due. They face Arizona’s best two pitchers, and two of the best in the leagues, and beat them both. Shiiiiiiiiiiiiit!!
A Little Good News
Good to see the Yankees stinking things up. I’ll be rooting for the BoSox all year (except when they play the Bravos)- don’t want the Stankees to win their division- as it keeps the Bravos 14 consecutive division titles record safe- you realise how impressive that run was when a team with over a 200 mill payroll struggles.
Willie Harris
Veeeeeeeeeeery eaaaaaaaarly days yet, but kudos again to JS and BC- they traded away Langerhans when they had to, and instead of bringing in more popular choices to cover his absence eg Gregor, Salty and Co, they gave him a shot. Have to wait and see on Harris whether this is a fluke or not, but you gotta love the fact that a guy making next to nothing is playing superb defence, is hitting for high average (.500) and has been delivering offensively and defensively in the clutch- time will tell.
AJ
I think AJ will find his stride. We’ll see a streak here and a streak there- hé’ll get lots of RBIs and homers. It’d be interesting to be perched inside JSs brain to see what he’s thinking- any inkling at all to approach AJ mid-season to see if he’d agree to a trade? I honestly don’t think JS will approach AJ- he’ll see out his contract. But…with starting pitching needs and the need to find a large wad of cash to extend Francoeur’s contract in the foreseeable future…one’s gotta think the chances of securing him after the season are not looking good- I honestly can’t see JS prepared to offer anything more than 15 mill- it’ll be interesting to see how much AJ will be prepared to sacrifice to stay a Brave.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this
Hillbilly, O’B,
Went with Southern Rock Opera. First time through, I thought I was partial to The Dirty South. But when I listened to it a second time, I thought maybe I was partial to SRO. Try as I might, I couldn’t decide. Then it hit me.
…Such is the duality of the southern thang.
Supplemented DBT with The Derek Trucks Band, Songlines (which I think I’ve seen mentioned here before), Steve Earl’s, Guitar Town, Lucinda’s, West & The Story, Brandi Carlile’s new release.
Thanks for all the great picks.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 6, 2007 2:03 AM | Link to this
Sosa looked good. Mets in first place………Nice!
By We Have Mets the Enemy
May 6, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this
Your game story has an error, Dave. Kelly Johnson’s two-run single in the ninth came off an 0-2 pitch from Saito, not Beimel. Then Saito retired Renteria on the grounder to third.
By We Have Mets the Enemy
May 6, 2007 2:35 AM | Link to this
Unfortunately, Dave, the only pitcher bad enough to provide Andruw with the kind of breakout game you keep expecting is Mark Redman.
You’ll just have to content yourself with enjoying Andruw taking BP. Once the game begins, he’s generally overmatched.
By Coach
May 6, 2007 3:12 AM | Link to this
Dear Andruw , hey buddy. Your on pace for a 25 home run 110 RBI .240ish AVG with 150 strike outs. Good luck with that new contract in your walk year.
By bergian
May 6, 2007 4:04 AM | Link to this
I mentioned it a few nights ago on the graveyard shift here on the blog….so, I will do it again and no one will notice! ;)
I seem to recall Andruw taking a Dave Kingman type stance in ‘05. Just opened the hips, and hit the ball a long way like Kingman did, only with a (Somewhat)better batting average. No fear of his knee breaking in two. Nice, simple swing. And, lots o’ hits to right field, including Homers! Why, after his best offensive year, is he back to hacking like a rookie? Just doesn’t make sense.
By bergian
May 6, 2007 4:23 AM | Link to this
For the younger whippersnappers here who don’t know what Kong Kingman looked like at the plate…(NOt a lot of photos of him on the web) https://host239.ipowerweb.com/~ltienter/LTIstore/catalog/images/kingmanApa-100x100.jpg
By e.e. cummings
May 6, 2007 4:46 AM | Link to this
So much depends upon a red wheelbarrow, glazed with rain water, beside the white chickens.
By Bill
May 6, 2007 5:43 AM | Link to this
I appreciate what A.Jones has done for the Braves but it’s time for a change of scenery. I know he wouldn’t agree but it’s best for him. He will never bat for a high average and strikes out to much. It’s bad that he’s so hard headed. I just hope the Braves don’t sign him period. Put the money in the most important place, pitching. They can find someone to play CF and that position will be just fine. I hope AJ agrees for a trade before trading deadline. Come on AJ, kick it in high gear.
By David-ATL14
May 6, 2007 8:18 AM | Link to this
Quick update from the MINORS- Dan Smith pitched 6 innings last night for Mississippi- he took the loss. Carlyle is pitching today for Richmond.
That would seem to suggest that Lerew will be up to pitch on his regularly scheduled day(Tuesday). I know Villarreal is also an option but I fully expect Davies to take care of that this afternoon, by forcing Bobby to get the Big O up in the pen no later than the third inning.
Should be a pretty easy call, bring up Lerew and send down Barry who will probably see action today also.
By Steve McP
May 6, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this
Did anybody happen to notice that the winning pitcher for the Mets (with a 2.43 ERA) was one Jorge Sosa - couldn’t we do with a pitcher like that at the back of our rotation? Yes I know he had an awful 06 and we were surely right to get him away, but I just thought it was interesting.
With regard to Andruw, could he not bat 6 for a while with the good clutch hitting of Frenchy at 4, think of his RBI total with those three ahead of him!
By T 2 the D
May 6, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this
DOB’s blog about the top of the order is a good read, I however think the overall patience at the plate of the team as a whole is different from those in recent memory.
Gotta win today, I feel good about Kyle. At least he has stuff whereas Dredman has (had) none.
Roslyn posts slay me.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
Berigan-I noticed your post. Andruw’s wide stance in 2005 has morphed over the past two seasons into who knows what? There is much less balance. You saw the change last season when he started that ankle breaking back swing. I just don’t see him changing much of anything, though. Apparently neither does Terry Pendleton. I know he had success two years ago, but I’ve never really liked a stance where the hiops come into play so little. There’s just not as much stride and the hps don’t propel the swing as much. Oh well, what do any of us know. We just watch 300 games a year.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Stranger, sounds like you’re all set. Some great music pickups….
Mets the Enemy _ thanks, just went back and realized that mistake. getting it fixed in online version now. Things were happening fast in that last inning.
By dadgum
May 6, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
Not going to even say I am some great hitting coach or anything of the sort, but watching Andruw swing last night was simply painful. The man just isn’t playing ball. Lowe continued to pitch the outside part of teh plate…fast ball away,sinker,slider away….still Andruw wants to pull everything. Everything. No going with the pitch at all. No pitcher is going to leave the outside part of teh plate until you put something in play to the right side.
Andruw I am sure will bounce back but if the Braves keep winning at this clip with him slipping in his walk year then it gets better for the Braves to negotiate a workable deal. Boras will make it difficult regardless but I am not shedding any tears over Andruw’s slump right now.
Oh by the way Andruw should never have been charged with that error last night. A good one hopper close to Thorman. Thorman tries to hold the bag instead of stopping the ball. The runner wasn’t that close to being doubled up. Thorman looked very weak defensively there. Pure and simple that is the 1st baseman’s job to stop that ball. I can name 50 little leaguers who could have made that play. Error goes to Thorman not Andruw.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
Steve McP,
Jorge’s performance was missed by many bloggers … indeed stones are throwing stones at our pitching coach for not being able to get his ship righted.
The kid hits with power and has great stuff … the Braves knew that from the beginning … it didn’t take baseball acumen to recognize it.
When players we don’t like are experiencing bad times, we call them names and clamor for their removal … if it’s someone we like, we make excuses for them.
When players we don’t like are experiencing good times, we call them lucky and question their true long term ability … if it’s someone we like, we propose waiving the 5 year waiting period for Hall of Fame induction.
Bowman is a piece of work … Without many other current options available, the Braves are forced to maintain their confidence that Kyle Davies can turn things around … Not only is that strong, it an unnecessairly insulting of one’s intelligence; not to mention having a possible negative impact on today’s starting pitcher.
It’s one thing to realize that your performance has been poor and contemplate your future being in jeapordy … it’s quite another to hear or read something that translates to “you wouldn’t be here if the team had any other choice”.
I’m sure that the Braves continue to hope that Kyle will quickly regain his form and eliminate the control problems, just as we all do.
However, while they might well exude what appears to be confidence when in fact there is none … truth is truth and they either are or they are not confident! I imagine that they still have such confidence because, in spite of what Bowman says, the Braves do have options and if they believed that Davies wasn’t going to turn it around … they would have found the medical reason for Kyle’s problems and those options would have probably already been exercised.
Limited options aren’t going to the confidence level … a good outing today and a couple more good followup sessions with Roger might.
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
Bobby Cox got Andruw’s attention early in his career when he yanked him out of the game for dogging it defensively. It might be time to send him another message regarding his clumsy offensive approach. Drop him to 6th in the order against RH pitchers behind Francouer and McCann and to 5th against lefties behind Francouer. Maybe that will sink in to Andruw’s thick skull more effectively than Pendlteon’s pleadings. His .235 BA ain’t cutting it, neither are the rising number of runners he’s leaving on base.
DOB: any inkling yet who gets the start Tuesday? Are they leaning towards Oscar or Barry, or is one of the possibilities from the minors on schedule to make the start? I’m guessing we’ll get a clue today depending on whether Oscar is/isn’t used.
A lot of people on this blog have very selective memories. No one seemed to remember how good Oliver Perez was a few years ago for the Pirates, and Sosa’s performance here in ‘05 has already been erased from most memory banks. As bad as Sosa was last year, the guy has a major league arm, and was a terrific 6-inning pitcher just 2 years ago.
Even with Pedro and El Duque on the DL, their starting pitcher is a whole lot better than expected. If Pelfrey gets turned around, the Mets’ one alleged weakness will be a strength. It’s likely going to take pretty close to 100 wins to take the division, but given the success wild card teams have had in recent post-seasons, the Braves (and their fans) need to focus more on their own W-L record than worry about the Mets.
Given the team’s record, especially in recent years, in series with home field advantage, maybe it’s time to start the post-season on the road.
By dadgum
May 6, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
I agree that Andruw needs to be moved from the 4 hole to the 6th. However I would move McCann to cleanup and Frenchy 5th. McCann would be better protection for Chipper and he makes better contact than either Frenchy or Andruw on a regular basis.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Mr.Baseball-I haven’t noticed anything from the beat writers, or anyone else who writes regularly about the Braves, or Baseball in general, that says the Braves are paying much, if any attention to the Mets. From my point of view, it’s all the people here on the blog, fueled by the Mets’ fans who constantly come here to thump their collective chests and give us grief, that are concerned with what the Mets do. The Braves seem to be concerned with their own performance-which, as you mention, is what they SHOULD do.
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
This just in: Braves to face LaRoche today. Not that one. LA calls up younger brother Andy. Reportedly starting at 3B. Back to pinch-hitting for Betemit. Speaking of minor league callups, is Salty going to collect splinters until Pena comes back, or will he get another start or 2? No off days for team for at least the next 2 weeks.
By Kentavo
May 6, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
I’m sure I’ll miss the defense, but I’m ready for the Andruw Jones era to be over. He has got to be the worst cleanup hitter in the league. Bobby should realize that and move him down in the order. Who would hit cleanup? Frenchy, McCann, Thorman? Anybody would be better than “The Human Rally Killer.”
By your daddy
May 6, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this
am i first again? i rock, i rock..
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this
Lew: You’re right. The team seems focused on what matters. Can’t say the same for bloggers, but that’s to be expected. We don’t need to be getting into any juvenile nyah-nyah-nyahs with the sophomoric Mets bloggers. Just leave it at Braves 4, Mets 2 and ignore them as best we can. The Braves have been considered a class organization during their long run of success. Let’s try to keep a little of that perspective here regarding unwanted visitors of limited mental faculties. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be Mets fans.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 6, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this
OK Lew over a month into the season and so far yours and all your wishful thinkers can accept your errors in judging the Mets pitching. I told YOU that they had pitching. The scary part, if you’re a braves fan, is the return of Pedro, Mota and Sanchez will only make them tougher. I’m not saying they will return and contribute but IF they do your team is cooked.
By Scalp 'Em Braves
May 6, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this
Morning all (well, at least it’s morning here). Just popped in to mention the George Will column in today’s paper. Every fan of Hank Aaron needs to read this article to confirm why he was the greatest, and every fan of Bonds needs to understand why he isn’t the greatest and won’t ever be. As Will said, true fans of baseball should collectively yawn when he hits 756 (and he will), and wait for A-Rod to break his record, as A-Rod has 150 more home runs at this stage of his career than the “B” word did. Just as those who hold out that Ruth was the greatest home run hitter of all time, irrespective of Hank’s achievement, I will hold out for The Hammer as being the greatest, period.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Chop Zone-Mr. Baseball is correct. You no longer exist. Bye, it’s been fun.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
dadgum if you ain’t right on target as per usual Dadgum and I agree 99.9% … would be 100% except that I’ve become less sure over time that he will bounce back … unless you mean bounce back up after falling down.
It’s not a slump … it’s the direct result of his approach.
The unfortunate thing is that there have been more than one occassion when Thorman has prematurely commited himself and muffed what should have been a routine play … but, that goes with the process. Still, I’d play him every day!
Regarding ole “powerful but pitiful, pathetic, predictable and painful to watch” … Andruw’s certainly a 5 tool, I mean “p” player. My reason for beginning to doubt his “recovery” is that his behavior bespeaks premediation … though I can’t imagine a reasonable scenario for an intelligent person.
Methinks that he would have to be pretty dadgum dumb to be as skilled as he is and perform as he has … unless he had a private agenda.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this
Davies better be on his game. We have a terrible lineup going out there today!!
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 6, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this
Mrs Baseball is like the rest of the Braves fans…..They think their S-H-I-t doesn’t stink……so typical of their fan base. They spend a lot of their time with their noses in the air looking down on every other fan base…….Pathetic
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 6, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
I’m sure you’ll take that route LEWIE. Now that it’s apparent you are WRONG.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
Yes, LaRoche is in the lineup today, and Chipper’s not.
Andy LaRoche at 3B for Dodgers, and Chipper getting his first day off for Braves. I should’ve known this was coming when Woodward and Orr were out there taking early ground balls and turning double plays before batting practice started yesterday.
Woodward’s at third, batting eighth. Salty’s catching, batting seventh.
Frenchy’s hitting third, Matt Diaz fifth, Wilson at first base batting sixth.
The Sunday “bomb squad,” Leyland used to call these lineups. And usually they produced. We’ll see, though. Might take quite a few runs to win.
Oh, and it looks like Barry or Lerew on Tuesday, from conversations I had with people. Barry threw a bullpen side session yesterday, which would put him on schedule to start Tuesday provided he’s not needed today. But Lerew could also do it.
Schuerholz just told a couple of us that McBride has not been discussed as a possibility for this start, and again said he’s been starting to build innings down there, not because they plan to move him to rotation. But he didn’t rule that out entirely, either.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
It’s interesting the different takes you can get on history. 70 years ago today, the Hindenburg exploded, thereby providing the photo used for the first Led Zeppelin album.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 6, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this
I’ll keep reminding you LEW that 1. The Mets aren’t a 3rd place team as you predicted all off season. 2. They do have pitching 3. You don’t know crap about assessing another teams strenghts and weakness’s. Like a lot of what is written here is a lot of Maybe, Woulda, Shoulda, If this, If that.
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this
I just reread some of my posts and are sloppy or what?! Too many to mention … but omitted words; was instead of wasn’t and poor punctuation are among the culprits. Apologies to all!
Maybe I’ll be better after the game …
By Lew
May 6, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
Misanthropic and misplaced mosquitoes whining incessantly.
By supergrass
May 6, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
last night Jorge Sosa outpitched the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner Brandon Webb .. WHAT! and he now pitches for the STINKIN METS. GEEZE, WISH he had that good stuff with the braves
By Lew
May 6, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
Zumaya was warming up for the Tigers and felt something pop in his middle finger. Sure sounds familiar-like a flexor tendon. Is this going to be the injury of the 21st century, or will it be oblique strains? He’s on the 15 day DL.
By Scalp 'Em Braves
May 6, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this
Supergrass:
Don’t worry about Sosa - he pitched a few good games for us in 2005. That’s why Bobby stayed with him so long last year, thinking he would regain his “magic”
Rest assured, “Senior Stink” will put a dagger through the Muts hearts when they need a great, or even good performance. It will happen.
By N8
May 6, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this
Lew
“Misanthropic and misplaced mosquitoes whining incessantly.”
One of the funnier lines from you.
Nice job.
Coach
Nice point on the .240, 25HR & 110 RBI pace Andruw is on. Let me point it out, so everybody is clear on my point of view towards Andruw.
I don’t have a problem with those numbers, especially with the defense he plays in CF. However, I absolutely have a problem with those numbers coming in the cleanup spot in the order. Not to mention, those numbers coming from a guy in his walk year, when his agent is compiling the “bible” of why Andruw should get 20 million per.
Said it before, I’ll say it again, and I’m sure at least one or two more times throughout the year (if not later this week). Andruw is a #6 hitter at best. He hacks at everything and he doesn’t knock in runs unless he hits HR’s. That type of approach is PERFECT for the lower 3rd of the order.
Didn’t everybody say about Francoeur last year: “Well, he’s not very selective, but hey! We’re getting 30 HR and 100RBI out of the 6 hole….BIG DEAL!”
EXACTLY! Put Andruw their and let him hack away, since the Braves don’t pay him to “hit singles”.
Let the GOOD hitters like Chipper and McCann knock in all the runs with the singles with RISP.
I can’t wait for the first 2 week period when Andruw is “tearing it up”. Because I’m gonna get about 20 posts a day aimed at me saying, “how do you NOT like Andruw now?”. I’ll just weather the storm for the 2 week stretch and then start up again, when he starts trying to pull everything for the month following the hot streak.
It’s sad. He’s CLOSE to being one of the greatest players ever. If he actually took the ball the other way and reacted to the fastballs in and mistake pitches, he STILL would hit a ton of HR’s.
Oh well.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
Nathan-Thanks, Dude, that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me. As far as Andruw-yes, he will still hit his 40+ HR and drive in his 125 runs. I just wish he’d hurry up. He’s killing my fantasy team. I just know damn well that if I drop him, he’ll get hot and someone else will pick him up. Still……
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
Well at least the bench has been strenghtend for today’s game, lol. If the “bomb squad” can keep it close it may come in handy.
By NCBravesFan
May 6, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
It’ll be interesting to see the moves that take place in the next few days re: the rotation. The Braves have gotten squat from the back end of the rotation, and still they hold one of the best records in baseball.
Hopefully one of the kids (or current bullpen pitchers) will step in and pick up the pieces in the 4/5 hole. If they can, you have to like the Braves’ chances to reach the postseason this year.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this
Salty’s got a GUN back there. What a throw to pick off Pierre at first
By James
May 6, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
Holy Cow
By Lew
May 6, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this
Salty’s thrown out two runners, now. Maybe we should trade him during the game while his value’s still high.
By Braveheart
May 6, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
Is this the special Kyle Davies Sunday lineup? We might as well get the vets some rest because we are losing the game anyway with Davies out there? No sense hurting anyone in a game we are forfeiting? Just kidding (sort of). I understand the vets need some rest from time to time.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this
18-11, and still so frustrating. Smoltz beats LA for the first time in lord knows how long, and so what happens, the next night we give it right back, with LA besting Hudson for the first time in lord knows how long
I cant fault anything specific Cox did last night. Not blaming him for what he did with the pitching
But this team keeps getting breaks and keeps returning the favor to the opposition.
Well managed teams just dont do this
By Bob, journalist
May 6, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
I know I’m tired and having a bad day … in a bad mood even before I saw the line-up … but could someone explain the AJC caption under the picture of Terry showing the youngster how to grip the bat?
It said: “The Braves conducted a youth clinic Saturday at the Villages of Carver YMCA, but Terence Moore writes that Henry Aaron intends to speak out more often about the dearth of African-Americans in baseball”.
Somehow I think it was intended that I see some positive or negative connection between the clinic being conducted and either Moore writing his article or Henry deciding to speak out … but I don’t.
What point is trying to be made?
I never think of folks being black, white, red or yellow … but how many black Americans are in Baseball? I really don’t know … and don’t really see writing about it as being anything more than a source of potential racial tension … unless they are being unfairly discriminated against.
Lefthanded handed Lithuainians? Americans? Non-Americans?
My guess is that good players, regardless of origin, race or religion are given every opportunity … there just ain’t enough good ones to go around for that not to be true.
Unfortunately the rally killer tried to do it again but Diaz wouldn’t allow things to go for naught. Salty’s still got his 0’fer going … 1-0.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
“As bad as Sosa was last year, the guy has a major league arm, and was a terrific 6-inning pitcher just 2 years ago.”
In 2005, Sosa issued 64 walks and struck out 85 in 134 innings, and yet he somehow wound up with a sub-3 ERA, which number some folks looked at and reached the conclusion that he was something terrific.
Sosa was the luckiest SOB in baseball in ‘05. He has a major league arm, of that there is no doubt. But he has AA command.
On another note, I see that Ryan Langerhans ended up being sent to AA after all
By Brad in KY
May 6, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
Robert
That’s probably one of the worst attempts at an argument I’ve ever seen concerning a manager’s “responsibility” for making sure a team doesn’t do whatever it is you think the Braves did or didn’t do last night.
Bobby Cox has made plenty of mistakes, but he’s won way more than he’s lost, and if his teams have been anything they’ve been consistent. So what’s your point? If you’re gonna bash Cox then bring something substantive to the table rather than speaking darkly about things that “well managed teams don’t do.”
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
Brad, the team is 18-11, but should be 21-8.
Well managed teams get a break and go for the jugular. The Braves get a break, and take their foot off the gas.
As good as they are, they arent as good as they should be.
Explain to me how that is NOT the mark of a poorly led team
I can tell you right now how this year looks like it’s gonna play out. The Braves are gonna win 90-plus games, and gain a spot in the playoffs.
And then they are gonna be sent summarily backing, and guys like you will be cussing the team’s bad luck, or cussing the umpire’s strike zone, or cussing a hurler’s pitch selection, or cussing whatever excuse you can grasp at
The 2007 Braves - SSDY
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Cox benched the wrong Jones tonight. Man, Andruw has to start at least trying to hit the other way.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
“and if his teams have been anything they’ve been consistent.”
Aside from the fluke year in ‘95, his teams have been REMARKABLY consistent, especially in October, and especially since ‘01
Tho noone seems to want to remark on this
By N8
May 6, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Hey just got back home after running around on a Sunday. Missed the first two innings.
Looks like Andruw did his “best” to make me look right in the first inning by trying to kill the rally. Thank goodness for the ever so dangerous RBI machine, Diaz hitting behind him.
Also sounds like Salty had a nice throw to pick a runner off. I don’t care what you all say, I love McCann, but Salty’s a keeper.
DOB
I saw somebody ask this a couple of months ago, and kind of scoffed at it, but what are the odds of teaching BOTH McCann and Salty how to play some 1B in the offseason, while keeping them both at catcher? One could could catch 3 games a week, and the other 2, with whoever’s not catching playing 1B.
Of course, I mean down the road, NOT this season. Because, if Salty becomes the hitter that everybody says he’ll be, and we all know what McCann is as a hitter, these are two guys that we don’t wanna let go anytime soon.
Hey Andruw! See that inside out swing from Frenchy? As I type that, he lunges and HACKS at a low outside pitch.
Unreal.
By N8
May 6, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
BOOOOOOOOOOOO
BOOOOOOOOOOO
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
Man on base, Andruw at bat
First pitch, strike one swinging
Second pitch, strike two looking
Any bets number three is strike three flailing?
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
Maybe andruw will strike out one more time
By Robert
May 6, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this
That there was a $20 million at bat
Uh huh
Fat lazy stupid and stubborn is no way to play baseball - even if you’ve got all the talent in the world
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
I think it’s time for…….
Kelly Rent Chipper Francouer McCann Jones Diaz 1b Harris
or
Kelly Rent Chipper McCann Francouer Jones Thor Diaz lf
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
All:
Davies is throwing a slider today. I have never seen that from him. It is definetly helping out today’s efforts.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
Who is this guy “parading” around as Andruw Jones?
Go to mlb.com and look at his swing this year compared to the last few years. He’s really pressing right now. That seems to be getting him fooled. PATIENCE at the plate is the most overlooked thing for power hitters. Where has his “eye” gone?
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
I have to say, for as much as I’m not convinced Davies will be a good ML pitcher, he looks good today.
I guess that is what is so frustrating about him. 1 out of every 5-6 starts he looks dominating, it’s just those other 4-5 we could do without, where he looks like the righ-handed version of Mark Redman.
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Anybody else think that Woodward looks a little like Billy Bob Thornton?
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Davies has it tonight but he’ll wake up tomorrow lost. He’ll stay that way for 3-4 starts then be dominate again. crazyness!
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
Props to Davies, he’s looking good & has been economical with the pitch count.
Andruw’s first two ab’s is backing up everything that was said about him last night.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this
N8:
Exactly. Good 2:04 post.
By Train Wreck Bystander
May 6, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Salty got ripped - he tagged that guy!
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Prime opportunity for bobby to keep climbing the ejection ladder
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Totally agree. That slider looks good.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
Davies has to get out of this jam. We don’t have the firepower in the lineup tonight to get back in this if we’re down 3-4 runs.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
Davies has lost it. Kid has no composure when things go bad. He also has the inability to get a double play when in trouble.
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
KJ is VERY lucky he didn’t blow out a knee on that take out slide (which was a good clean slide, btw).
Very dangerous, indeed. whew!
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
Looking at team stats the Mets are slightly better offensively with a 1.19 better era.If these numbers hold up, the Mets will win the division.Now I’ll be surprised if the pitching numbers are close to where they’ll be in sep.I’ll guess both teams will be in the 3.40 - 3.60 range.As for offense,I’m guessing the Mets will have a little edge there, but if we get better production at first and left I like us everywhere else.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this
Davies is soft.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
Way to pitch out of it Davies! That was very good pitching. But again beware of N8 2:04 post
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I thought he came back pretty well, getting Furcal and Pierre.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
MBATL,
Please don’t defend Davies. The guy puts together one good start in a month. Again, when he pitched well against the Mets in his first start everyone raved. I was the only one to say, HAMPTON’S INJURY KILLS US. Davies isn’t consistent.
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I will defend him. The guy is 23 years old, and is striking out nearly a batter an inning. He needs to work on control (whether that’s mechanics or confidence, I’m not sure). He was rushed to the majors, and was hurt last year.
I’m not saying he’s a superstar - obviously not. But he’s got talent and the Braves should be patient with him. If it turns out he needs some work at AAA, okay, I’m not opposed to that. But we shouldn’t give up on him.
By Braveheart
May 6, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
Davies will win the Cy Young Award this year you little ingrates!
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
I remenber when Davies first came up, all the talk was on how mature and composed he was ? that goes to show how hard it is to judge a kid’s makeup before he knows himself.Add center to my list of positions that need to come around offensively.
By Epinephrine
May 6, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this
Efrim, I have to say that is one of the more incoherent posts I have ever seen.
Anyway, there is every reason to defend Davies. We all know he has the talent. Its whether he can get his control down, and his confidence up enough to make him effective. Starts like this are a step in the right direction. For the Braves to be a very good club this year, they need people to step up. I for one would be pleased were it Davies.
By Chop Chop
May 6, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
Hampton’s injury doesn’t “kill us”. The man hasn’t been legitimately healthy in two years, Efrim. If you’re going to blame something, don’t blame that. In fact, I’d rather you take up the “donkey in the dugout” mantle than say something as ridiculous as “Hampton’s injury kills us”. At least the “donkey” has been involved.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
I’d be happy if Davies went 8-9 with a 4.20 era.
Unfortunately, he probably won’t.
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this
I enjoy the energy that Willie Harris brings to the park, I think he’s a MUCH BETTER utility guy than Orr.
But I truely believe that Diaz 100 percent deserves at least a two week stretch of being the everyday LF. Hell, he ACTUALLY hits righties better than lefties, so to hell with the platoon. However, I would replace him late in games with a lead, for defense. Also giving, Harris an occasional start.
Just a “hint” of Gary Sheffield in Salty’s batting stance/pre-pitch rythym.
Hey, bases loaded, to bad for the Dodgers, Andruw isn’t coming up.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
Bases loaded 1 out. Damn Chris Woodward up. Knew it was to good to be true.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
All Woodward has to do is NOT hit in a double play. How much you wanna bet he does?
By Oh My
May 6, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Bobby should pinch hit for Woodward here. Harris perhaps, to stay out of the DP.
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
Chris woodward is a joke.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Told ya. Double play. Get Fu*#@ing Woodward out of the lineup.
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
why in the world would you let a joke like woodward bat in that situation when you have chipper on the bench…obviously able to play since he was on deck? brilliant.
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
Nice AB, Billy Bob.
Rally….officially killed.
What’s up guys? No Hack n Jack this series? Oh, THAT’s right, the Dodgers actually have good pitchers, that don’t groove mistakes on the inner half.
By Oh My
May 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
Woddward should have not been allowed to bat there. Not a good “non” move by Bobby IMO.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
BabyGoayEater,
Davies will NOT finish with an ERA of 4.20. I wish, but I really think he is incapable of doing that this year. Woodward is terrible.
By Jared
May 6, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
Why don’t we bring Rafael Belliard out of retirement? I’m pretty sure he could hit better than Woodward. This guy is the worst hitter I have ever seen.
By N8
May 6, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
While in my 2:46 post I made a stand for giving Diaz more/regular playing time, which I still believe is justified.
Nobody knows if Harris would’ve been on base this inning or not, but when vouching for Diaz playing time, let’s not forget his speed (or lack there of), HARRIS SCORES ON THE SALTY BLOOPER.
Nice catch by Diaz in LF. LOL!
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
Woodward is a freakin joke. Wish he would have just stood there and took strike 3 so Chipper would have had a shot.
By chipdip
May 6, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
no chipper to pinch hit with bases loaded???????????? is cox stupid!!!!!!!!!???????????
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Should’ve pulled Chipper off his Hooters’ wings-stuffed rump to hit for Woodward there, Bobby. There’s your ballgame. Chris Woodward b-l-o-w-s.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Why does Bobby sit our two best hitters on a day when a struggling pitcher is pitching. Not to mention the rubber game of a series that we need to win? Why? I’m not a Bobby basher by any means. I think he’s one of the best baseball minds to ever don the uniform, but I have to wonder why he insists on letting players kill themselves (and the team). Pinch hit for Woodward. That might have been our only chance to win the game. Two of our best hitters on the bench and he lets the .194 hitter hit away. Why? Our bullpen stellar. It’s the 7th. Two runs there and we win. period. Why Bobby, Why?
By Steve-O
May 6, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
CHRIS WOODWARD IS THIS YEARS TODD PRATT I HATE CHRIS WOODWARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Coulda had Chipper hit. Coulda had McCann hit. Coulda had Thorman hit. Coulda had Harris hit. Hell, even coulda had Orr hit. Seanez struggles with lefties. Cox had an entire dugout full of ‘em. Did he send one out to hit for a weak RH hitter? Of course not.
And you people still think he is a great manager? Whatever positive managerial attributes Cox posseses, they pale in comparison to his strategic ineptitude. If they don’t come back and win, this loss is on him, with an assist from the home plate ump who ruled the guy at home was safe.
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
another example of leaving a pitcher in too long
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Dodgers have out executed us to death these last two games.
By Braveheart
May 6, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
SSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHH! All you Betemit haters. Orr and Woodward and Willie Harris are not half the ballplayer Betemit is with all of their combined talents.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
I would rather have a 50 year old Belliard or Lemke as my utility infeilder that CHRIS “RALLY KILLER WOODWARD”. Bobby can’t let this go on.
Davies gives up homer. Efrim I officially agree (no 4.20 era).
I really beleive we can win with our good lineup in there. Not this joke of a lineup though.
By chipdip
May 6, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
GAME OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
chipdip
He’s got Chipper, Thorman AND McCann on the bench, he must be saving them for the “other” bases loaded situations in this game.
Betemit ANOTHER PH HR???
The old “it’s the 7h inning and I haven’t pitched this long in over a year, and I’m tired, hanging breaking ball”.
Way to NOT pinch hit for Chipper Bobby, and way to leave Kyle out there. Whatever GOOD the first six innings did for his confidence, the 7th inning just made him take two steps back. Way to “protect” your young struggling pitcher Bobby.
Too bad, Bobby didn’t inch himself “1 closer” to the all time ejection leader today, maybe we would’ve had a chance with him in the clubhouse already.
YIKES.
By chipdip
May 6, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
WOODWARD LOOKS LIKE A CRACK HEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
I can honestly say the Dodgers are a better team than the Braves. Only two teams in the league better than ours, but still.
By gotigers72
May 6, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
I’m a Bobby fan, always have been, but I believe he’s losing it. Why not let Chipper hit for Woodward with the bases loaded and 1 out. May not get another chance. Let’s see now, should I let one of the best, hottest hitters in baseball hit, or a guy that’s not hitting his weight? Hmmmm [Bobby rubbing chin and thinking.] If he wants to give Chipper a day off from playing the field, he could have put Pete Orr in the field after pinch hitting. Bad Move Bobby.
While I’m at it, can anybody name another team in MLB that has a hitter in the .220s hitting cleanup? That’s what I thought. No. He’s left 3 more on today so far. I believe the announcers said he is 11 for 67 [.164] with runners in scoring position. Putrid for someone who is supposed to be getting paid to drive in runs.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 6, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
well, that is quite a braves lineup that grady little penciled-in today. one more move and grady will force bobby to bring snitker in to hit for somebody. and now, betemit … everybody in the league has betemit figured out - but the braves give up two homeruns in two days. this journalist is glad jimmy smith did not go to today’s game to see woodward and crowd playing for the braves. wait! the one run lead is now a 3-run lead. bobby cox is coming to the mound!
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
And now he’s spoiled a nice Kyle Davies’ performance by leaving him out there too long. Now his confidence-boosting day is shot.
It’s easy to defent Bobby Cox’s body of work over the long haul; but games like today’s sure are head-scratchers.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
I’m so frustrated with this teal right now. It’s like they give us a little taste then pull it right back. I know what they could be. I really think we have a special team. Good ball clubs don’t beat themselves and that’s exactly whats happening here.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
*team not teal, sorry.
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Once again…Bobby Cox leaves a pitcher in the game for too long. Why can’t you take Davies out after 6 innings with some confidence?? Instead, you let him make certain to get the loss. I am really starting to get digusted with Cox. I can’t believe this crap lineup he threw out there today. Totally wasted a good effort by Davies. You could look at the lineup before the game and chalk this up as a loss. Chris Woodward and Craig Wilson??? C’mon. Everyone on this board knew that Woodward was going to hit into a double play there. Also, I think Andruw Jones needs about a week off. He is killing this team with his completely unproductive, little-league-quality at-bats. Does Terry Pendleton even speak to this guy, or has Andruw ‘earned’ the right to be a stubborn a-hole with his .260 career batting average??
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
“Why don’t we bring Rafael Belliard out of retirement? I’m pretty sure he could hit better than Woodward. This guy is the worst hitter I have ever seen.”
Two words for you, dude
Ryan Langerhans
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
“If they don’t come back and win, this loss is on him, with an assist from the home plate ump who ruled the guy at home was safe.”
YUP. But as far as the “assist” to the home plate umpire? It’s one run. GOOD TEAMS overcome that. Though you are correct.
WOW!!!
I realize that “calling a good game” is the most important part of the catchers job (which btw, in the two games Salty has started, he’s done a good job, IMO), but DAMN! That kid’s got a cannon.
Calling the pitches asside, he’s FAR superior, from what I’ve seen so far, to McCann with the arm, behind the plate.
The more I see of this kid catching, and McCann’s hitting be VERY important to us, the more I think 1B might be in McCann’s future, NOT Salty’s.
By ElbravoX
May 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Wow, speechless. No Chipper or B-mac, then he stays with Davies, wow. Mr. Cox is losing it!
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Jarrod sure can gun down the runnser.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
mr baseball
for once I agree about Bobby. He lost this game. He better hope his players pull this one out for him. All the momentum from that great start could be lost here. Sure we have the pirates coming up but we can’t afford to lose the series. Especially two in a row. Especially Hudson’s starts. Especially games that could have been won with our normal lineup.
Sorry for the rants guys, I’m just really frustrated.
By bobby
May 6, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Don’t know what is wrong with AJ except being pigheaded but he looks about as lost as any hitter I have ever seen.
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
Just a very short rant,can we please drop the word haters from these blogs ? nothing closes the mind like negative buzz words.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this
What does Harris do? Goes up there and does his job. Leadoff walk. Doesn’t he play the infield too? What about third for Woodward on Jones’ day off.
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
2nd & 3rd with no one out. Is there any way that Cox can move Woodward up in the order to kill this rally, too???
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
Damn is KJ a good “hitter”.
I would take 9 of him, over 9 of Andruw at the plate, any day of the week and TWICE on Sunday’s.
See if the TALENT on the team, can overcome Bobby’s ineptitude…..AGAIN.
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
KELLY JOHNSON IS THE MVP OF THE FIRST HALF, FAR AS I’M CONCERNED!!!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
All Willie is doing is quietly putting up solid at bats every chance. He works for his PT. I wasn’t a Harris fan, hell I didn’t even know who he was but call me very inpressed.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
“It’s easy to defent Bobby Cox’s body of work over the long haul; but games like today’s sure are head-scratchers.”
Ron - How many times are you and your apologist friends gonna say that?
We are watching head scratcher number 4 (at least)
And it’s the first weekend in May
How many individual knucklehead decisions does the man have to make before y’all put two and two together and deduce that any on field success the Braves have had - now or ever in the past, is DESPITE Bobby Cox’s in-game statagizing, and not because of it
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Nice to see the REAL players on this team come through.
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
A walk and two “stick the bat out there” to make contact opposite field hits.
Can anybody say, Francoeur base hit to tie it, and an Andruw DP to follow?
By Steve-O
May 6, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
I love Willie C. Harris, Kelly working the left side of the field, Edgar working the right side, and Francoeur is hacking at balls,…..What will happen??!!!
By Oh My
May 6, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
Chipper and McCann better start limbering up. IF Jeff and Andruw can doin anything we’ll need some pinch hiters comig up.
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
why not bunt the runner to third? why? because why play for a run to tie the game when perhaps he hits a home run…. foolish
By Braveheart
May 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Can we please stop having posters with stupid names like SendMoney?
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Think Dodger fans are screaming at Grady Little through their TVs, now, for leaving an ineffective guy in too long?
I’m guessing yes.
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Are we ready for an Andruw Jones strikeout with the game on the line?? I know that I am ready for it.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
What are the chances Andruw takes one the other way to keep the rally going?
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Similar to Frenchy before he started taking the ball the other way, not to mention started walking a bit more, if Andruw see ANYTHING over the plate here, (no matter what type of pitch it is), it’s a MISTAKE! PERIOD.
If Honeycutt didn’t tell him to throw 4 out of the zone, he should be fired.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
Amen, bravesdave, Amen
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
WOW. We have signs of intelligence with Andruw, he chose not to swing at anything.
By ElbravoX
May 6, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
AJ=worthless
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
Not saying the pinch hitting for diaz is a bad move at all just would like to point out that bobby will pinch hit for a guy who can hit the ball but lets 0-for the centure chris woodward bat with the bases loaded
By Oh My
May 6, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
That would IF Jeff and Andruw can “do” anything.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Even if Chipper gets out here I’ll take Chipper up with men on and day of the week and twice on Sundays.
By Train Wreck Bystander
May 6, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
The Men In Black are giving this one to the Dodgers.
By Ron Robets
May 6, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
My God… this is what kills me about this team… runner at 2nd, nobody out. Can we not play station-to-station baseball when we DESPERATELY need to? Jeez, just tie the damned game, Bobby, and start from scratch. Beats the hell outta losing by a run because ya didn’t bunt ‘em over and get ‘em in!!!!
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
Face it people. HE SWUNG.
Too bad, Bobby’s ejection came 2 innings too late, like I said before.
Oh well. At least we know Chipper’s still got some fire. He’s probably just p/ssed that Bobby didn’t use him the last time. LOL!
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
chipper and salty have been ripped off today! There is no way chipper swang~ and salty slapped his head!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
Way to go Thorman! Saved it for Bobby. And what about that bullsh!t call on Chip?
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
THOR!!!!!
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Unreal. Clemens to come and save the Yankees a*******es one more time.
As much as I hate the Yankees, Clemens is good for baseball.
Welcome back Rocket……AGAIN.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Roger Clemens~ Now pitching for the Yankees!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! man~ I bet Steinbrenner let go a couple bucks for that!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
N8
You really think he swung? I don’t but hey I’m biased. Did he throw Chip out?
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
serbok… swang?
What part of the Appalachian mountains are you from? grins
Just kidding bud.
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
glad to see woodward is still in. Jesus.
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
The umpires tried hard to prevent the Braves from tying it up, but they could not complete the job. Hmmmm, maybe Thorman should have started the game today. Maybe Chipper should have started. Maybe. Maybe Davies should not have been in the game in the 7th inning to give up a gopher ball to Betemit. Maybe. By the end of the season, these ‘maybes’ are going to cost the Braves any chance to win the division.
Looks like scum Clemens is going to the Yanks. What a hero he is.
WAY TO GO, SALTY!!!!!!!!!
Here comes rally-killer Woodward.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
Way too go Salty! Man~I would love to be able to see this kid play fulltime! Willie Harris has been very good tho~
By Mississippi
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
ok so he is 1 for the century now
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
Good job Salty! We are very lucky to have this lead. Very lucky. SHH! Don’t let the Muts hear that, huh?
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
We get a second chance.
Managed properly, we’re now leading 4-2
As it stands, it’s tied at four.
And it finally dawns on Grady Little that Tsao may not be the answer today
Spy vs Spy has nothing on this classic matchup of managerial “masterminds”
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
MY GOD, does Pierre throw like a girl, or what?
By parks
May 6, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
this blog is hilarious with all the knee jerk posts
By Steve-O
May 6, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
We all doubt this team too early, always….. Lets all admit it…
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
The Range of a Rose bush? best line that guy has ever said~
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
Jarrod!!!
We’re gonna get something good for Saltalamacchia, folks!!! That’s a ncie piece of trade bait!
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
I love these fargin’ bastages!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
When we have two outs we hit. When we don’t we hack. Why?
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Big question now~ is how will they (bobby?) use the bullpen~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
And the Rocket will coming back as a Yankee
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Salty was able to lower his body and still get a fluid,level swing on a down pitch,that is a very good thing.
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Wow, we’re gonna win a game despite the bad managing today, methinks. I’m not a Bobby-basher, but whew, today’s game isn’t one of his finest. And if ya wanna point out he was ejected… c’mon… you think he grabs his keys and heads to the ranch?
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Much like Nick Johnson and the majority of the Houston Astros, Jeff Kent looks like a porn star.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
What a freakin’ game, eh?
Chipper did the best thing he could do _ got them their second out, so they could really get serious.
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
BabyGoatEater
My initial (live) thought was that he swung. But on the replay, it looked like the bat never crossed the plane. As Chip said, we get the SLOW MOTION and multiple angles, to say it probably didn’t.
But his hands were clearly out in front of his body and that is what I saw initially, and I’m sure what Balk a Day Bob Davidson saw live.
Let’s just say, I’ve seen bigger swings NOT CALLED, and vice versa.
I would’ve called him out.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
I disagree that these are kneejerk reactions. All the things that were brought up on this blog were legitimate problems that need to be addressed. We are lucky to have pulled ahead in this game.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
SO~ Soriano for 2 innings? I hope so~
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
Here’s hoping Roger Clemens gets shelled all year.
By Steve-O
May 6, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
I guess as Smoltz would say….”This is a signature win..”
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
The rose bush line was a great one.
Is there any chance that Bobby Cox can be ejected before any game where he writes ‘Craig Wilson’ or ‘Chris Woodward’ on the lineup card??? I don’t care if Woodward got a seeing-eye-single for an RBI. He is still useless.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
Well, now we’re gonna see just how ingenious Cox is.
With Wickman unavailable, what will he do to try and hand this game back to the Dodgers?
By Victor
May 6, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
It is oficial… Clemmens goes to THE EVIL EMPIRE!!!
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
That Soriano fast ball looks turbo charged.It’s won of the rare ones that seems to POP! half way to the plate.
By Ron Roberts
May 6, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
It’s not the team so much that some of us doubt, it’s the decisions made that land us where we are.
God, I’m gonna hate myself for agreeing with Robert, but we shouldn’t have ever been down 4-1. Chipper should’ve pinch-hit when Woodward had the bags loaded with one out a couple of innings earlier. And if not Chipper, then Harris (who’s fast enough to reach base even if he does hit a double-play ball…) or McCann, who’s actually hitting for a good average, much unlike Woodward.
Now, Woodward did redeem himself a couple of inning later, but the part of the managerial decision to keep him in earlier is mind-boggling. Wolfe had our number, and this bullpen had been stout, so there were no guarantees we were gonna have another shot to score runs in the game. And it still nags at me that we blew a chance to get Davies out of the game with a confidence-boosting performance under his belt; instead he left after giving up a dinger to Betemit that, in his mind, put his team in a heck of a hole to dig out of.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
So~ who amongst you~ would let Soriano pitch 2~ and who would bring in Gonzo? I say~ let Soriano pitch the ninth~
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Well Cox’s bad managing was countered & one up’d by Little.
By Steve-O
May 6, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Glass Half,
Hesterical, I never thought of that, Nick Johnson looks like a taller Ron Jeremy………. Do I even have to tell you what Nick Johnsons porn-star name would be? I think not……
By Braveheart
May 6, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Roger & Andy back together again. I’m a little uncomfortable with the nature of their relationship.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Seriously, I heard somewhere Harris can play the infield. Can he? I’m not saying he’s a hero or anything but he deserves some more at bats.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Do you think that ANYONE on the Braves staff will point out to Andruw how much he contributed to that rally - without even putting the bat on the ball much less pulling one over or off the left field wall?
Braves went from 7:5 underdogs to 6:5 favorites in Vegas the moment Cox got ejected (despite trailing at the time)
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
I wish wicky was available~ as it is not cold~ and the air is not thin? and he would be comming in without the bases loaded? lol
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Sorry Lew
The following quote by Glass Half Full takes the cake for the funniest post of the day.
“Much like Nick Johnson and the majority of the Houston Astros, Jeff Kent looks like a porn star.”
Then again, I’m not sure that he’s not just stating the obvious. But I still laughed out loud, that’s gotta count for something, doesn’t it?
As for Bobby getting ejected and not still running the team from the “tunnel”? Yeah. I get it. It’s called sarcasm. When he makes bonehead decisions like he did today, I’d rather not have to look at him. So him not being in the dugout is good enough.
Today is a prime example (if they hang on), of the team winning DESPITE Bobby, not because of him.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
dont be dissin; OzzY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Well I’m sure Roger is money well spent. That last line is dripping with sarcasm by the way.
I’ll take Smoltz and Hudson all year for half his salary any day.
Anybody going to the games in Pitt this weekend? Anyone even around here(PA)? Just wondering. I’ll be at all three.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
just curious~ are there any lefties due up in the ninth?
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Bring on Gonzo !!
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
serbok
I’d probably go Soriano for two but……..it’s a good decision to have, huh?
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Harris has played 2nd base in 175 big league games, 5 at SS, & 128 in center.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
lol~ robert:o)
By N8
May 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
“Braves went from 7:5 underdogs to 6:5 favorites in Vegas the moment Cox got ejected (despite trailing at the time)”
Nice. Very funny Robert.
Serbok
I would keep doing what Bobby is doing, let Soriano and Gonzo both close, based on matchups in the 8th and 9th innings. Though it is CLASSIC Bobby. Saving the lefty for the lefties coming up in the 9th, even though Gonzalez has faired better against righties.
Somebody should take the “book” out of Bobby’s hands and HIT HIM OVER THE HEAD WITH IT. Down in the “tunnel” of course.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Gonzo in to shut em down. I absolutely love having a bullpen this year.
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Speaking of porn stars: while some look like ‘em, others have great porn names…Rocco Baldelli, for example.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
yes~ it is BGE~ where are the lefties? why does bobby do this? please someone explain ? 3 up 3 down~ making more than minimum wage? why cant Soriano pitch 2 innings?
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the Harris stats GHF
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Ron Roberts, and others: I love the special powers you have that you could pull pitchers just before they give up runs. Davies was solid; decent pitch count, 1 out from getting through 7. If he could’ve finished the inning, we’d have saved a pitcher, basically, because he was due to lead off in the bottom half. I’m sure you knew that the pinch hitter with a .140 average was gonna take him long, though.
Regardless of that, it was a good start for him. 4 runs in 6 2/3; 6 hits and 2 walks. One pitch from a great start, but if he gives us that kind of effort most times out, that’ll be just fine.
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
Team oozing with talent pulls out win. Good thing our players came to play today (no woodward isn’t a player), Ok i’ll let up on him but still……..you have to wonder if we could have put them away earlier without him in the lineup…..well, I’m off for the day. Go braves!
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
LOL~ N8! very good! I honestly did not know tho~ that Gonzo does better against righties~ thanx for the info:o)
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
Good Game!
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Very Good GHF! lol
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
I don’t buy the money ball approach to closing.Righty,lefty,I don’t care! Gonzo is a closer,Soriano is a setup man.
By BravesDave
May 6, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Nice, important win. First team to beat the Dodgers when they were leading after 6 innings.
ESPN just reported that Clemens is getting $28M annualized in his deal with the Yankees. Highest annual salary in baseball history. Unbelievable. Must be nice to be a Yankees, Mets, or Red Sox fan and not have to worry about some artifical ‘budget’ nonsense.
By N8
May 6, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
MBATL
While I definitely give Bobby more slack than Robert does, I also don’t hold punches back when he deserves it.
One of the things that I stick up for Cox (that I think makes up for his lack of strategy skills - at least over a 162 game schedule), is his ability to put his players to not only succeed, but to give them the confidence they need to succeed in situations they wouldn’t have the last time they were in those situations.
Regardles of “saving an arm” in the bullpen, or getting as much out of him he could. Even had Davies NOT given up the HR to Betemit, it was the WRONG move (based on his past style of moves in the same scenarios in the past). Davies had pitched 6 BRILLIANT innings, well, at least brilliant compared to what we’ve been seeing, or what we expected him to do today.
WHY ON EARTH would you try and squeeze another inning out of him. Smoltz? Hudson? Even James, who’s had recent success? Sure. With this bullpen, I still don’t see the point of pushing the starters in close games, but that’s just my opinion.
But with Davies? COME ON! Sure we came back to win the game, so Bobby (and Davies) are off the hook. But tell me that the kid aint gonna be thinking about that 7th inning, the next time he’s running out of gas in a close game.
One step forward, and two steps back all in a matter of 2 innings for Davies. Shame on you Bobby.
By Greg in TN
May 6, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
Happy postgame denizens…
Nice comeback by the red shirts this afternoon at the Ted. The kid got his first hits in the show and had a nifty pickoff of Pierre off of first in the first.
Another series win gang. Here come Greg Maddux, Marcus Giles and the San Diego Padres.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
And the Braves snatch a victory from the jaws of Cox.
The pen was magnificent as usual. Davies pitched VERY well, he was just left out there too long. I hope that two run jack by Bait-a-Meat doesn’t hurt his confidence. He should have been out of the game.
I think one thing that will be overlooked in the 7th will be how Harris worked Tsao, he had a 9 or 10 pitch AB. Harris has contributed in every game he has played, He’s a great addition to say the least.
Great game by Salty, he looks to use all of the field. He’s going to be a good one either here or somewhere else.
It’s time Andruw is moved down in the order. What is he now with RISP, 11 of 59? Too many rallies are being squashed with him in the four hole.
Another series win, bring on the Pads!
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
sorry~ just cannot agree with you there~sendmoney~ they Both are very capable closers~ I agree with Braveheart~ clemmons and pettites relationship does appear to be kinda strange?
By MEB
May 6, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
MBATL… I’m glad somebody gets it! The ability to manage requires an ability to see through all the numbers and make decisions that give your team the best chance to win. Sure there is a “book” method but I think Cox does a great job of giving his players a chance to excel. I have no problem with how today’s game was managed and I think some players stepped up today and made valuable contributions that some reactionaries would have really screwed up.
By Chris
May 6, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
What’s this? Game’s been over for 45 minutes, and no story yet? Whatchoo doin’, DOB?
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
serbok Look at Soriano’s career stats,if he’s a closer he just became one.He has more blown saves than saves in his career.Closer is as much about makeup as stuff and the stats don’t lie,Soriano was 1 of 5 last year,Gonzo has closed 29 straight.
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this
Next to Redundant Robert, I am probably the harshest Cox critic on this blog, but as much as I rip his in-game moves, I can also recognize what Cox is trying to accpmplish long term. The reason players love Cox, and a lot of us (mostly Robert) razz him for, is his loyalty to them.
By letting Woodward hit in those 2 situations, Cox is letting him know he is a real part of the team. Just about everybody, myself included, would have hit for Woodward with the bases loaded. Cox left him in to an awful result, but the next time up in a similar situation, Woodward came through. The guy is a solid bench player. Let up on him.
The decision whether or not to send Davies out for the 7th is debatable, but there was no overwhelming evidence for getting him out. He was still under 100 pitches when Betemit hit the HR, and Cox wants to see how he does in his last inning of work for future reference.
As for those of you who don’t care about the lefty/righty matchups, find yourself a Braves blog where no knowledge of baseball is encouraged. Now that Remlinger is gone, things are a little simpler for our occasionally strategically-challenged manager, but so far he seems to have a clue how to utilize Soriano and Gonzalez as tag team closers. Fortunately, both have been so good in key situations, it’s possible he’s not using them properly, but getting the same results.
Today’s Player of the Game: Chad Paronto. Throws one pitch, and not a real one at that. One pitchout, another Salty seed and Paronto lumbers to the dugout, his day done. 5 runs later, he’s the winning pitcher for his arduous effort.
By StingerSplash
May 6, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Why is it last spring training Andruw hits one of the longest home runs ever recorded (I think it hit the Vehicle Launch Assembly Building at Canaveral when it came down) to right center and yet anything more than two steps away from the left field foul line is now unexplored territory for his swing?
By Chris
May 6, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
Andruw isn’t 11-for-59 with RISP…He had driven in 11 of 59 runners in scoring position when that stat was flashed. He’s 7-for-34 (.206) with RISP. Not much better, but there ya go…
By jd
May 6, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
what a bunch of losers! not the braves, but all the experts on this blog…geez
By Paul
May 6, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Finally some good news from our starters that did not come from Smoltz or Hudson. Davies pitched well today. He made one mistake. He did a good job with getting ahead of the hitters. Hopefully he can now start stringing some quality starts together. A good win. A ballgame we surely would have lost last year. If there were more reasons to hate the Yankees and Roger Clemens, what a pitiful display at the stadium. ROGER PLEASE GO AWAY. YOU ARE POMPOUS A-HOLE.
By Chris
May 6, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this
Everyone needs to stop ragging on Bobby. With Wickman out, I’m sure the man’s just trying to give his bullpen a little break if possible.
Davies only threw 104 pitches (62 for strikes). Which means he had thrown around 90 or so when the 7th started. He had given up 4 hits and had thrown fewer than 100 pitches. That’s why he was out there.
And that’s why Bobby won 14 straight division titles and MOY awards in both leagues, and none of you have.
By Sir Stealth
May 6, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
This blog is basically a great source of information and rationality from DOB and a whole bunch of vented spew by the worst of what causes Atlanta to be called a crappy sports town. You people will never get what causes Bobby to be a great manager. It’s a steady hand style that causes teams to play well consistently over time. It is all about seeing the forest and not just staring at a tree. Calling wins and losses over one play or another displays symptoms of the problem. Yet we win in the end, and at the end of the season the Braves will be winners.
This was a great game. I love the resiliency of the team. You can’t call an inning over with 2 outs, and you can’t call a game over when they’re behind. It’s probably the most likeable quality in a team. We took the series today with basically our B team white flag lineup. Chipper, McCann, and Thorman starting out on the bench and Davies taking the mound. Didn’t matter - love this team and love cheering for them rather than b*** about them.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
sendmoney~ cool~ once again~ I have been enlightened by another blogger~ (I mean that sincerely) I doubt I will look at the stats~ becuz~ I dont need to/ you have already done so and enlightened me on them~ However~ wouldnt you agree that Soriano has Closers mentality? I mean~ 5 chances to close? he has awesome “stuff?” Circumstance plays a big role? A’la bobby decisions with Wickman this year? I dunno~ I feel he has the tools to be a really good closer~ however~ I do agree with you~ I like Gonzo in the closers role~ sometimes tho circumstance dictates the correct way to use a pitcher~(which will affect stats?) I’ve also heard he could possibly be a starter~ which I find very interesting~
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
N8, regarding Davies. I don’t really agree. I think there’s merit in letting a starter try to do his job - which is to pitch 7 or 8 innings on a good day, or 5 on a bad day (averaging out to about 6+). And I really doubt Kyle is wallowing in self-doubt because he gave up a HR in the 7th. I imagine he’s feeling pretty good about today, as well he should.
But, you stated your case pretty well, for what it’s worth.
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Serbok I don’t know about Soriano’s closer mentality,it’s posible,as you pointed out he’s only had 13 save chances in his career.I was slightly off last post,he was 2 of 6 last year and is 6 of 12 career.The only player I was sure of before he proved he could close was Smoltz and that was from years of watching him finish as a starter.The main point I tried to make is I like a single closer,not closing by committee and Gonzo is the more proven guy.
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
Send Money: actually saves stats frequently do lie, or at least give a distorted view. 8th inning pitchers like Soriano has been will ALWAYS have deceptively bad numbers because only his failures count. If he gives up a lead in the 8th, he gets a blown save. If he does his job, all he gets is a hold, which is a pretty useless stat considering how it’s determined.
For example: a pitcher comes into a 1-run game with the bases loaded and no out. The first batter he faces hits into a double play with the run scoring. He strikes the next guy out. He gets a blown save. Stupid, right.
The next night, some other reliever comes in with a 3-run lead to start the 8th. He walks 5 batters in a row, 2 with the bases loaded, before getting yanked. Somehow, he’s credited with a hold. Even more stupid.
Extra inning game. Reliever pitches 5 scoreless innings but his team doesn’t score either. Game is decided later. What does he get credit for? Absolutely nothing. Such is the statistical life for relievers.
To all of you who are always advocating a bunt late in the game, especially with an actual hitter at the plate: Please find yourself the nearest time machine and transport yourself back to say, 1930-something. A team that hits in the clutch like the Braves does not need to be giving away outs. You play for 1 run, that’s usually what you’ll get (at most).
Big innings win games, not “small ball.” And contrary to the popular but erroneous belief, there is a happy medium between small ball and Earl Weaver’s 3-run homer approach. It’s called hitting w/RISP. The Braves do that pretty well. It’s the main reason they’re 19-11.
Bo bunts. No steals. No “moving the runner over.” Get ‘em on, get ‘em in. Just skip the get ‘em over part. A lot more effective.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Chris~ if Bobby is trying to give the bullpen a break~ why wouldnt he had let Soriano pitch the ninth~ and given Gonzo the day off?//I do think tho that Mr baseball is correct~ lefty/righty matchups are very important~ however as I said earlier are there any lefties comming up in the 9th? I dont believe there were? at least the first 2 hitters were right handed~ i missed the 3rd out~ dont know who was batting~ however~ sendmoney made a good point that Gonzo is better against righties~ I think Gonzo~ should be the closer~ even when Wicky comes back~ tho~ somehow I just dont believe thats fair~ considering what Wicky has done for the team~ Gonzo~ has a proven track record~ and seems to have better “stuff” and the mentality~ to be the closer~ Wicky has the mentality~ but not the “stuff” nice position for the braves to be in tho?
By caveman22
May 6, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
sir stealth I have to completely agree with your assessment of the bloggers on this site. If they spent half as much time just rooting for the Braves as they do dissecting every meaningless little aspect of every single game, Atlanta would have a great fan base —period!!
Hell, most of these guys live 5 states away from Atlanta or further.!!
By serbok
May 6, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
I agree sendmoney:o)
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
To all you nattering nabobs of negativity… PPPPTTTTTHHHHHHH!!!!!
By Coach
May 6, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
This is a perfect example of why you should not blog during the game. What a great character win by the Braves. Thank you Bob Davidson for firing this team up , nothing like an umpire blowing a couple of critical calls to get a team’s dander up. Kyle Davies , you get a reprieve , good pitching performance keeping it close until that mistake pitch to Betemit. Congratulation’s to Salty on his his first two major league hits , throwing a runner out and the RBI. This team showed heart , character and guts today. Cox saved Soriano and Gonzalez for this third game so they could nail it down to win this series two games out of three. this is some real progress in the right direction. 19-11 and hanging tough with those Mets.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
Helluva game. I thought Davies actually pitched quite well, with the exceptions of a couple of pitches, including that fat hanging curve to Betemit.
Salty has a cannon _ 3-for-3 throwing out runners, two basestealers and Pierre off first.
Chipper’s next career will not be as supervisor of umpires, that’s for sure. He ripped Eddings a new one a couple years ago, and today he ripped both the home-plate ump for missing the call on Salty’s tag on the dude’s helmet, and the third-base umpire (Davidson) for being a showboat, etc.
I’ll have it in my notebook. Gotta get writing. Oh, and Bradley’s writing a column on Salty. Good stuff on him from several people, including Chipper, who says Braves need to find a spot for him because he’s ready.
Oh, ONE OTHER THING: After 30 games, it might seriously be time to consider dropping Andruw a spot or two in the order. So many runs not being driven in in that spot, but fortunately McCann and Francoeur are picking up the slack.
Still, check this stat out, from an info chart I just put together for tomorrow’s paper:
Andruw Jones is 3-for-21 (.143) on the homestand. He went 0-for-7 with runners on base in the Dodgers series to drop his season average to .176 (9-for-51) with runners on, including .200 (7-for-35) with runners in scoring position.
I mean, I know it’s a sensitive case because of who he is and all. But what’s gonna happen if you drop him temporarily? He can’t possibly hit any worse.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
Sorry guys for this Post! You just have to put up with it!!! (me) THIRTEEN days to go before I will be Experiencing THE greatest!!songwriter of our times! (next to Neil) ROGER WATERS May 19 In Ford Amphitheatre Tampa Florida! I feel like I did when I was 8 years old waiting for Xmas! I’ve seen the Real Floyd do the Animls tour~ and I’ve seen gilmour do the Division Bell tour Now I will see the man who made it all possible! Once again I apologize for the self indulgence~
By Send Money
May 6, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this
DOB Brave point you made about dropping Andruw,and one I agree with.BC is very loyal to his vets so it may not happen,but who wouldn’t rather McCann be at four ?
By Coach
May 6, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Me and O’Brien on the same wavelength , how about that ? LOL.
By Eric from MO
May 6, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
I have just read the what everyone was blogging throughout the game, you are all a bunch of morons.
First of all Chipper was on the bench because he has yet to have a dayoff and he has been injured so much. McCann had a dayoff because it was a daygame right after a night game which is hard on a catcher. I would think this would be obvious but apparently some of you bloggers dont get this.
When Woodward was up to bat the reason he didnt get pinched hit for was because there was one out and the pitcher was due next. Bobby was going to use Chipper there and he didnt want to use McCann because that would me mean we would have no catcher on the bench. Once again thought this was obvious.
Also the homer to Betemit, Davies had pitched great and Betemit had been in a horrible slump why not try to let Davies finish the inning especially with the pitcher spot due to leadoff the inning. Once again thought this obvious.
KC “Willie Harris sucks. He has no place on this team.” Started the 7th inning with a leadoff walk. Not so horrible.
Look no matter what team you watch there are going to be headscratchers. Everyone needs to just get over that and stop criticizing Bobby.
By mr baseball
May 6, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this
Watching the golf on CBS and one of their info babes utterly butchered Saltalamacchia’s pronuncciation in a highlights package. Reminded me of the days when Erin Andrews was doing Braves’ updates and Skip had to hold his tongue when interacting with her.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Caveman? Do you realise that the people who are blogging on this site ARE Braves Fans? Talkin Baseball? Thats what Baseball is All about~ questioning~ theorizing~ dissecting? Thats why it is so difficult to be a good “color analyst”// thats why we have to endure the Sutton’s and the Mcarvers? The mindless drivel~ of Jack Buck~ it’s not an easy job~! I do not understand why you “waste your time” on this blog if you do not enjoy talking baseball~ Thats the beauty of the game~ there are so many second guessings~ its why people enjoy the game~ Lighten up? enjoy talkin baseball~ or just dont? P.S. If you dont understand the term “color Analyst// I’m sure someone who enjoys talkin baseball on this blog will enlighten you~? lol
By ernesto
May 6, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
DOB - it’s pretty obvious (to everyone but Shaun) that Druw has become a 100% pull hitter. It got him a jack the other night, but most times it just gets him jack. He won’t listen to TP. He has, what, 1 hit to center or right this year? I think dropping him to 7th might get his attention. He’s just killing the offense.
And personally, I think this approach is motivated by his desire to hit a mess of dingers in his walk year. That’s just straight up selfish.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
Dad Gum IT LOL I did’nt mean to say next to Neil~ Roger Waters IS the greatest songwriter of our time! IMO LOL once again~ sorry for the self indulgence:o(
By Lew
May 6, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
Serbo-Where is the Ford Ampitheater in Tampa? It’s been about ten years since I lived in the Bay are and I don’t remember it. I went to many shows at The USF Sundome and a bunch at Jannus Landing (my favorite venue), in St. Pete.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
Lew the theater is at the fairgrounds on U.S. 301// it is relatively new~ I have never been there~/ it seats 19500 people~ I too have seen many shows at the sundome~ never had the chance to see anything at jannus landing~ tho I do know where it is~
By serbok
May 6, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this
Lew~ I hope the Hell I know where it is? or I’m really~ SOL! Lmao!
By N8
May 6, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
MBATL
Regarding your 5:03 post. I can totally agree to disagree with you. You too make a good point. He had a nice day. Like I said earlier, brilliant when taken in context to the results for him early in the season.
That is just a situation (similar to the way Cox would take out Jorge Sosa after 5-6 good/great innings two years ago), where Bobby seems to put his guy in the best situation to succeed, or in the case of some of the fragile players (Davies, Devine, etc…), NOT to lose it, even though he was already the pitcher of record, with a 2-1 deficit.
DOB
“Oh, ONE OTHER THING: After 30 games, it might seriously be time to consider dropping Andruw a spot or two in the order.”
GASP!!!!! DOB! How dareth, he who questions the the order in which Bobby trots out to home plate on a daily basis. May you be struck by lightening (twice) for making such a hasty comment.
I appreciate you making the comment. Makes me look a little less manic. Well, OK. Maybe not. But the sheep will back it up, just so long as it comes from you.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
Serbok-I know where the Fairgrounds are. It must be new. You’ve got to go to a show at Jannus Landing. It’s an excellent place for a show. It’s not too big and being outside is always pretty good. I’ve seen everyone from Warren Zevon and Johnny Winter to the Allman Brothers and Robin Trower there-and that’s only a few I’ve seen there. I used to do artwork for 95YNF when they were still a rock station.
By Coach
May 6, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
The Braves are 19-11 , Richmond is 20-6 , Mississippi is 20-10 and it’s good to be a Braves fan !
By serbok
May 6, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this
LEW WOW! I didnt realise jannus was an outdoor venue! Johnny Winter! Excellent!!!!!!!!!!!!! I remeber payinf 5 dollars to see Robin trower at curtis hixon~ lol I’ve never seen Johnny Winter~ I would love to! I’m not dead yet~ So~ heres hoping I get the chance~ Did you know~~~~ that according to the guinesse book of world records~ he is the fastest guitar player alive? I was fortunate enuff to see the brothers at tpa stadium~ same place I saw Floyd with and without roger~ I remembr 95 ynf~ what a fortunate thing indeed that you were employed by them~ :o) ROCk on Lew!!!!!!!!
GO BRAVES! gonna be a fun year:o)
By dbo
May 6, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
right on w/ modest mouse…awesome album
By Metfanatic
May 6, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Rumor is that Andruw is purposely having a bad season so he won’t be so attractive to other teams and he can stay with the Braves because no one will want him … he doesn’t need the big bucks so Atlanta can have him for bargain basement price! Yeah, right!!! Really makes sense!
By Lew
May 6, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this
Serbok-Jannus is an outdoor courtyard formed on one side by the old Hotel Detroit, which is now a bar. The other three sides are formed by old brick four story apartments. There’s all these stone benches all around and it’s about two blocks from the bay in downtown St. Pete. You get a real good breeze in the evening and it’s small enough that you never have more than 100-200 people there. I wasn’t employed by them, I just did promo artwork and got into about 50 shows in a year and a half. Is Russ Albums still doing DJ work there?
By N8
May 6, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this
“The Braves are 19-11 , Richmond is 20-6 , Mississippi is 20-10 and it’s good to be a Braves fan !”
Nice observation Coach. More talent coming for the near and distant future.
I wonder how the Mets minor leaugue teams are doing? Oh, never mind. Those guys will just be traded for All-Stars that other teams can’t afford anymore. Or left to toil in the minor leagues while the Minaya signs more big contracts with free agents.
By JohnGTfan
May 6, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
DOB What are the chances that Bobby will drop Andruw to 5th or 6th? I know he’s traditionally a slow starter…and it’s obvious he’s pressing WAY TOO HARD so far this year. He has to be thinking about the $$$$ that are waiting for him. But if he continues to be so stubborn…many of those dollars are going to disappear. I’m not dumping on him..I love his defense…completely unmatched. But until he decides to start going with pitches to the opposite field, he’s simply a liability. Was nice to actually see him walk a couple times though.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this
Lew~ Russ Albums? WOW a blast from the past~ I live in fort myers now~ we do get 102.5 I havent heard him on the radio for many years~ I’m pretty sure he is’nt on 102.5~ so I guess the answer to your question is no~ I dont believe he is on the airwaves in the Bay area~ but I’m not really sure~ But my guess is no~he’s no longer around~ Wow man~ it is a small world~ I do know where Jannus landings is~ just never been thru the “doors” last I heard they were doing alot of new age~ concerts there~ bands I’m not really familiar with~which kinda sux~I do my best to keep up with todays music~ but my best seems not to be good enuff:o( DOB has mentioned a few bands I have never heard of~ however~ if the bands are any indication of his writing~ I’m sure they must be pretty good~lol
By Tomahawkin' Again
May 6, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this
Like Eric from MO, I read this blog after the game and people, GET A LIFE! This is not football!! Baseball is a marathon and to nit-pick every single move by Cox is going to cause you to come across, as well, Met Fans. Look, I agree, there are concerns: need better efforts from the back end of the rotation and Andruw simply stinks right now…BUT, at the end of the day, we’re 19-11. Don’t you just get the sense that the Bravos are looking like a very special team in 07 and once we get in the playoffs w/Hudson, Smoltz & the bullpen, we finally cement this dynasty in the minds of ESPNYC & the biased East Coast sports media w/a 2nd World Series title? Enjoy the ride Brave fans and calm down during these games, it’s a 15 round fight and we have the staying power to go the distance.
By serbok
May 6, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this
sorry guys~ I just dont think AJ is about money~ just dont see it~
By Lew
May 6, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this
Ah The joys of springtime in the North Country. My dog just got into a pi$$ing contest with a skunk-Guess who won? If anyone ever needs a good deskunking dog shampoo, I’ve got a good one. Thankfully.
By Robert
May 6, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this
“Me and O’Brien on the same wavelength , how about that ? LOL.”
Either OBrien had a big bowl of stupid for breakfast, or somehow a semblence of sense found its way into your feeble brain
By serbok
May 6, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
gone fishin~ at the local bar of course? LOL
By Lew
May 6, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
Serbok-I know Russ went to Philly for a while, but they can’t do much golfing up there in the winter so he moved back to St.Pete-but, like I said, it’s been ten years and we lost touch. I know Scott Phillips went to the Thunder station-everyone else kind of scattered when they changed formats. Sometime I’ll tell you about some of the jam sessions Russ and I went to with the Toler Brothers and Chris Anderson of the Outlaws. It got pretty wild-too much so for a family blog! One of the paintings I did for the station was a portrait of the Stones. Keith Richards was wearing a 95YNF T shirt. They used to have it hanging in the lobby of the station.
By James
May 6, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this
I know the left field debate is basically over, but Brandon Jones had another multi homer game today.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this
All you guys who think it’s a sin to blog what you think, can kiss my a@@. I don’t always agree with people on this blog but I don’t criticize them for blogging. I have a notion that DOB doesn’t mind good baseball blogging either. Yeah, I thought Bobby blew it. I’ve been a Braves fan for probally just as long as you guys. Yeah I live in Pa now. So what? Who cares. I watch every game. I love Bobby Cox. I don’t have to be a robot and just repeat every politically correct baseball statement about the Braves.
And please don’t take this as I don’t care about your opinion either. You disagree with me about Bobby’s performance, tell me. Just don’t question my love for the Game or this Team. I’m sure everyone here wants the Braves to win every game. I’m sure we can all be over-critical at times. That’s part of having opinions. All you guys out there who blog during the game with me, I love to hear your take on whats going on in the game. That happens to be my favorite blogging time. It seams you guys enjoy it too. So please don’t let up, and be here with me supporting OUR team while there on the field and off.
By Willy Wally
May 6, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this
Can we go a day without a Tampa Bay reference please? Good lord, people. Tampa, the team and the city, suck.
By MEB
May 6, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this
Lew… I know another remedy for a skunked dog and that is tomato juice. Its going to take several of those big cans of tomato juice but you soak the dog and let it stay on for 15-20 minutes. Just wash and rinse and you will still probably let the dog sleep outside for a couple of weeks.
I wonder if Andruw should bathe in tomato juice. His swing has been pretty skunky lately. :-)
By parks
May 6, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this
Back in first!
By Steve McP
May 6, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this
METS LOSE METS LOSE METS LOSE
By Willy Wally
May 6, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this
Magic Number is 133!
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
James, I don’t know that any left-field “debate” is over. Brandon Jones keeps playing like this… Well, let’s just say a couple of current Braves might be looking over their shoulders if they don’t continue producing.
More likely, I think we’ll see him near end of the season. But you never know. He’s definitely in the future plans, and could be ready to step in next season in a prominent role.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
Andruw’s now had better than 100 ABs to prove his approach at the plate. He’s always been streaky, and he’s been dropped in the order before because of that. With one hit right of left in 100+ attempts, it’s insulting to Frenchy & McCann, who both now work counts and spray hits to all fields.
Andruw will eventually make a multi-million dollar adjustment at the plate, but until he does he should be fighting to hold on to the 6th spot in the order.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
More news from the farm… from the Richmond Club Site *Richmond, VA - The Richmond Braves drilled the Durham Bulls 11-2 in the completion of a game suspended by rain last night and blanked the Bulls 2-0 in the regularly scheduled contest Sunday at The Diamond. The Braves, winners of 10 of their last 11 games, swept a two game series from the Bulls.
The Braves blew the suspended game open in the bottom of the first. The first 10 Braves hitters all scored runs. Carlos Mendez doubled three home. Gregor Blanco and Yunel Escobar each smacked two-run doubles. Martin Prado, Doug Clark, and T.J. Bohn also knocked in runs as Richmond enjoyed a 10 run inning for the first time since 1999. Gregor Blanco drilled a home run in the third to make it 11-0. After rain halted the contest in the fourth inning the Braves summoned Jake Stevens from Myrtle Beach to take over on the mound. He picked up the win with four and a third innings of relief without allowing an earned run. Mitch Talbot, who did not record an out in the first inning, took the loss. Blanco had four of Richmond’s season high 14 hits.
In the regularly scheduled contest the Braves again struck in the first inning. A walk, a single, and a wild pitch set up an RBI ground out by Bill McCarthy and a sacrifice fly Doug Clark to give Richmond a 2-0 lead. That was one more than Buddy Carlyle needed. He went the distance, striking out 10, while allowing just three hits. It was the Braves first complete game of the season. Carlyle has worked 18 straight scoreless innings. Jason Hammel also pitched a complete game but took the loss while allowing just two hits, both by Martin Prado.*
By KC
May 6, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this
DOB: “After 30 games, it might seriously be time to consider dropping Andruw a spot or two in the order.”
YOU READ MY MIND!!!
I think that the Braves should definitely consider moving Francoeur to cleanup and AJ to the 6 slot. Frenchy is just a better clutch hitter, and may soon prove to be the better hitter of the two, period.
By Big Deal
May 6, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this
You beat a line up with less power than your average Amish household, who cares?
Meanwhile the Mighty Mets took 2 of 3 from a much toughter Diamondbacks club. Now with the Padres coming to town and us goign to beat up on the Giants - “Oh no! How did we get 4 back so quickly.”
By ernesto
May 6, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this
As much as the top 3 are getting on, I would like to see someone consistent in the 4 spot, I’m thinking BMac, then Frenchy then Andruw.
I really think getting dropped to 6th or 7th would turn Andruw around, the last time Bobby dropped him, he came back and hit 51 bombs.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
While the situation with Andruw is quite frustrating for Braves fans, I don’t think the problem is going to be resolved until Bobby Cox is forced to make the move.
Perhaps that is why Bobby always like coaching the “kids” because they would listen and were teachable.
Anyway, I think everyone knows that Andruw is a “mistake” hitter. More and more teams are going to pitch around Chipper. Thank goodness we have McCann and a much more disciplined Francouer to cover his messes right now.
As good as Andruw is/was I don’t think anyone is going to pay that much for a defensive outfielder. I think Andruw needs a serious attitude adjustment and I don’t understand why Bobby has not yet sent that message.
By N8
May 6, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
BabyGoatEater
FANTASTIC post at 7:20. Well said.
MEB
“I wonder if Andruw should bathe in tomato juice. His swing has been pretty skunky lately. :-)”
You just moved into the “funniest post of the day” Top Spot. THAT was funny. I wonder how much tomatoe juice 20 million dollars could buy?
“You like a da juice?”
Stranger
Very well said with you 7:57 post. I commend you for “typing” it calmly as well, I personally would have added some more saracasm/insults in there. :)
By Yars
May 6, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
We still have to be concerned about the #4 & #5 starters. I still have no faith in Davies. Whoever is starting Tuesday is still up in the air. (Barry? Villarreal?) Davies needs to have a dominating game soon. Something along the lines of 6 IP, 3 Hits, 1 ER, 1 BB, 8 K’s. Maybe against the Pirates next Friday he will impress. I agree with Chipper about Salty. He does look MLB ready. I still say he’s trade bait. Thor needs to be an everyday player. Let him play against LH pitching & see what he does. I had no idea C. Wilson was this bad. Willie C. Harris is fun to watch. If he keps producing like he has, I don’t see why a Harris/Diaz platoon in LF can’t put up solid numbers. Mostly a decent average, high OBP, fair share of driving in runs. Good to see Langerhans have a good game today against the Cubs. 2-3, 2B, run scored.
By ernesto
May 6, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
You know unless my count is wrong the Braves have only lost one series so far this season.
How many have the Mets lost? I know its at least 2.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
MEB-Got a better one Dude. 1 gallon of water, a pint of peroxide (don’t worry, my dog’s black and it never bleached him), half a cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of Dawn dishwashing liquid. Give your dog a bat, rinse hi (or her) off and dry them. They can come in in five minutes. The smell is gone. Just try not to get it into their eyes. Willy Wally-What’s your problem? A bunch of us Braves fans either live or have lived in the Tampa Bay area. Contrary to what you think, at least St. Pete is a pretty good place to live. So is Clearwater, Bradenton, Sarasota and Ft. Myers. The team may not be great, but try Spring Training down there some time. It ain’t the East Coast of Florida or Orlando-that’s for sure.
By N8
May 6, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
“Meanwhile the Mighty Mets took 2 of 3 from a much toughter Diamondbacks club.”
And the Braves have taken 4 or 6 from the Muts. So your point is well taken. The Braves can only beat the weak teams.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this
That was give them a bath, not bat. The skunk would have gotten him worse if he tried to hit it with a bat.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
Ernesto, The Muts have lost three series, two to the Braves & one to the Marlins.
They would have only split this series with the D-Backs had Tony Clark not pulled a Bill Buckner with 1 out in the 9th the other night.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
A much tougher Arizona club? Weren’t the Dodgers leading the Diamondback’s division at the start of the weekend?
By Lew
May 6, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this
Didn’t the Braves just light up the Dodger’s reliever that no one else could even touch this season? Isn’t that what I saw today? Didn’t we get to their untouchable bullpen for a couple last night, too?
By Gil in Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this
The Mutts fans are in disguise tonight as they took it on the chin from the Diamondbacks. Welcome back to earth kid…
As much as I dislike the Giants I am going to be their biggest fan this week.
Should be a fun series for the Atlanta fans as we will get to say hello to two old friends in Giles and Mad Dog.
As much as I would hate to see it, it should be fun to watch Maddux take Andruw to school Wednesday.
By krath
May 6, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Advise to Chipper. Next time you’re hitting when Sam Holbrook or Bob Davidson is behind the plate…….don’t take anything close! lol
By krath
May 6, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this
Advice rather than advise
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
What would Coach Yoc say to Dru?
Maybe nothing, but he damn well wouldn’t be strapping on the leotard behind Hoss if she had a say. You can bet she’d be riding him good about balance and discipline, too. Poise. Poise!
By VENEZUELA
May 6, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
DOB dob dob DOB DOOBBBB
please respond me this time !!
this is something i wrote on salty’s and braves plans…i know its too early to think about this..its like predicting a tornado but…like thinking bout’ it anyway…hi all the way from venezuela ..great work ..admire your stuff oth the web
“I believe his future is directly correlated with andruw’s believe it or not…
if andruw is resigned (which i think there is a 50-50 chance of that happening, even though most people think he is long gone) salty will let go… and traded for a cheap but excellent young pitcher…i truly believe this…money will be spent on andruw and it wont be possible to sign a contract with a pitcher…
on the other hand if andruw signs (with the dodgers, i can really see him in white and blue !!! with furky and that starting ro..their OF is just not MLB caliber..defensive wise at least, and probably gonzo wont be back…so they just swithc pierre to LF and AJ CF, playing for 42’s team jackie’s i mean) elsewhere…i believe braves will keep salty and give him a shot at 1st …with thorman a our LH pinch hitter with strength…i can totally see this happening looking for a good pitcher on the market to solidify our rotation which is what JS plans are all the way…give pitching the priority it deserves on this team !! The line up wont be that damaged with the loss of AJ, cause braves are already seeing how Frenchy can handle the bat muchhh better !!!!! he will step up as our next 4th place batter and giving us a lineup that for next year will at least look like this :
Renty ss (i think there is gonna be a serious push by other minor leaguers to get him out..but hell stay to solid and experienced of a ballplayer..eventhough anything up the middle goes through)
chipper being chipper (with the cuban kid ready to go ) 3b
Frenchy (best clutch hitter on the team, strength will go up)
mccann (all star, should be careful with weight , looks chubby)
salty (too good a hitter, can probably repeat what frenchy did on sophomore year if not better)
7.mike cameron CF(dont know but have a feeling bout’ him and the braves, wont be such a downgrade defensively)
jones or blanco LF (could both stay and later be switched to CF, blanco that is)
huddy, smoltz, chucky, bueherle or antoher young LHP, and Davies
and on the bench some standouts like pena, thormy, diaz or wilson whoever gets traded first, the cuban kid, prado, and orr or harris
dont know this is too much of a speculation game just thought of giving it a try …
PO. i feel a jacque jones trade sooner than later !!! for this year that is
PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR THOUGHTSS !! DOB
By krath
May 6, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this
I was at the “TED” this weekend. Managed some good seats. I was 8 rows up between the plate and the Braves on deck circle ao I could get a really good look at the Braves. I didn’t think the “S” guy looked as big in person as what he does on the tube. Hey he ain’t small but maybe I was expecting Paul Bunyan.
By brent a.
May 6, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this
I went to this game today. Purchased a ticket off the street as there was a horrendous ticket line right at game time. I swear it would’ve taken an hour to get through it. Hard to believe considering only 35,000 announced for total attendance.
Anyway, fun game, and one that certainly whet my appetite to want to attend more games ASAP.
One disappointing thing, though, was this: Why do our fans refuse to stand during a rally?
I was on the 9th row, about 1 1/2 sections past the 3b dugout (yes, that was me booing Bob Davidson ;-) ) and when Saltalamacchia came up in the 7th with the score tied, a guy in the row behind me tapped the guy at the end of my row and asked him to sit down.
Folks, this is a ridiculous mind-set for a fanbase to have, that you shouldn’t be standing up during a great come from behind rally, even if it is a Sunday afternoon in May.
Also, in the top of the 8th, they flashed both Harris and Thorman (the 7th inning heroes) on the screen, and few people seemed to understand why (as there was very little applause.)
Then, in the 9th, why wait until there are 2 outs before you stand up when you’ve got a closer as nasty as Gonzalez?
I can understand sitting for Reitsma, but it seems to me like Gonzo’s energy should motivate the crowd to get up and stay on its feet for the entire 9th.
Perhaps I should cap my spending at $10/ticket and stay up top where cheering isn’t as frowned upon.
Go Braves!
By Lew
May 6, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
Stranger-Maybe Andruw’s problem is that his leotard is too tight. It causes him to fall down when he swings cause he’s all bound up.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
Damn it DOB you need to respond to Venezuela at once. He may be our next great GM once JS hangs it up.
All I could comprehend was McCann is looking fat & the Braves have some Cuban kid who is the second coming.
Venezuela just picking with you but that’s a little much to digest.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 6, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
lew, please forgive this journalist for being tardy with this skunk remedy. first. the dog will be crying. dry the tears. next, lew will be crying. dry the tears but use a different rag. now, hold the dog upside down and dip the dog in the following: honey and tomato juice. when the dog come back up, shake some ammens powder on all areas. then, milk. lots of milk. then, a light coating of lemon yogurt. rinse and repeat. hope this has been helpful.
now, andruw. this journalist today assumed a batting stance much like the one andruw is using. it tied this journalist up! there is no torque! the stance limits all the good things in a baseball swing. perhaps andruw can be persuaded to make an adjustment. that is probably more likely than bobby making one.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
Brent-At least they booed Balk A Day Bob when he called Chipper out and when he ejected him and BC.
By Willy Wally
May 6, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this
Geez, VENEZUELA, you are not by chance related to N8 are you?
By VENEZUELA
May 6, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
totally agree with ya brent a. happened the same thing with me at the ted…horrible just horrible…and i also took this loud horn to cheer they confiscated it !!!
the told me no loud noises were aloud …is that ironical or what !!!
By KC
May 6, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
I was at the game today. I have to be honest… I came very close to leaving after the Braves went down 4-1. With their bullpen, I figured it was over. Very nice pull-out victory!
Ya know, if it wasn’t for that 9th inning debacle in the last game of that FLA series, the Braves would still have not lost a series over a month into the season.
By KC
May 6, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this
We don’t talk about him much, but how bout the season Renteria’s having so far? Another brilliant pick-up by JS bringing him here last year.
By KC
May 6, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
Lew: I had a pretty good angle on that play when Chipper was rung up, and I gotta tell ya… that call looked like BS. I didn’t see an TV replays. Did they replay it from the side on TBS? Was the call as wrong as it looked to me?
By journalist jimmy smith
May 6, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
brent a, journalist has pondered your thought-provoking post and has these comments: once, jimmy smith sat behind a lady with a large head and a large hat. it was impossible to see the field. the game could not be enjoyed. brent a is purchasing a seat and should use it as the person behind uses the seat he purchased. the appropriate time to stand is when take me out to the ballgame is sung. now, as to excitement … if the person behind has to ask more than one time there can be great excitement in the stands. brief standing is accepted at a baseball game. standing for a long time is to be discouraged.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Isn’t it great, Redman will not approach a pitching mound this week. I don’t care who toes the rubber on Tuesday, he has to be a grand improvement over Redman.
I would like it to be Lerew but Oscar will be fine as well. It’s got to be a pick me up for the offense to have someone else on the mound. It had to be deflating to watch every lead given to Redman evaporate in an inning.
By KC
May 6, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
Swell. Roger Clemens and the Yankees are all we’re going to hear about for the next 3 weeks in the national media.
How difficult is it for some media types to understand that just because they’re based out of NY, doesn’t make it the center of the universe.
The only people who give a damn about the Yankees or Roger Clemens are Yankees fans and Red Sox fans. Notice to national media… PLEEEEEASE, GET A CLUE!
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
KC,
I watched on TBS. It was a BS call. We got hosed on that and the first run LA scored. Frenchy nailed the runner. Salty made a timely tag.
Who is starting on Tuesday? Villareal? If not, I say we bring up Lerew!!!
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 6, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this
The best part of this Clemens crap is that in a few years we’ll be treated to the made for TV movie “Brokeback Mountain 2: The Petite and Clemems Story.”
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
Lew, looser, inside-out, whatever it takes. Late on fastballs. Knocking helmets off catchers on breaking balls. There’s a foot in the bucket on every cut. Until he takes a little arc out of that swing, his ABs should be preceded with a warning for parents with little leaguers.
By KC
May 6, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
Efrim: Agreed. Villarreal of Lerew. I hope the start doesn’t go to Barry. Nothing against him… I just think there are more impressive arms at AAA and AA.
By KC
May 6, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
Did you hear what they’re paying Clemens? 28 mill pro-rated. That will come out to over 20 mill. Wouldn’t it be funny if this were the year he really starts to show his age. That would be classic!
By Ron
May 6, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
At least me and a few other bloggers are not the only people that think Salty should be moved to another position, even Chipper said so. Yes Chipper did not exactly say he should be moved to another position, but he was referring him be moved though!!! Not saying Salty should be moved now, but as soon as the offseason starts teach him a new position. Chipper does not give that kind of praise to just anybody, Salty will be the REAL DEAL!!!
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
Glass Half Full (GHF)
LOL, that’s one of funniest things I have seen on here. I about spit my drink all over the screen.
By Bigboi
May 6, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
Boyz I think we have our LF situation situated now huh? Couldn’t ask for anything more.
By MEB
May 6, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
I must have missed it but Mark Redman was placed on the 15 day DL effective 2 May. Did everyone see the cause of said disability? Yep… it could have only been a toe ailment that caused such ugly pitching. Redman is scheduled to have an ingrown toenail removed on his left foot.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
Anyone think Dontrelle Willis for Salty and Reyes would be a reasonable trade?
By KC
May 6, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this
Bigboi: Yup. I think LF looks good. Particularly for the 8th slot, where the LF usually hits for Atlanta.
Craig Wilson still doesn’t look all that good at the plate to me, but pretty much everyone else looks pretty good.
By Carolina Lady
May 6, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this
Perhaps Brent was thinking of European Soccer?
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Good game today.
Nice to get a win without relying on the long ball. Outside of Renteria, all the heroes weren’t the usual suspects (Thorman, Salty, Woodward, Davies). Great work by the pen, as usual.
Back to Renteria. There’s only been 3 games this season that he hasn’t gotten on base. AWESOME. KC, you’re right that we all know about his contributions. But we don’t sing praises for them enough.
I’m going to give KUDO’s to Andruw. He’s been taking a lot of bashing lately. He still has a .376 OBP. I get a little discouraged at the fans who are clamouring over Francouer and grumbling over A. Jones. Love both, hate both. Their approaches may be different, but I think their results are going to be very similar this season.
Regardless, Andruw has failed to reach base in only 6 out of 31 games this season. I think he’ll swing into and out of funks. But he’s been pretty consistent drawing walks. I would like Bobby to take advantage of his eye, and start thinking of him outside of the #4 spot of the order.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
N8, it’s a 173 game season, so I try not to get too excited.
VENEZUELA, IRONICAL, INDEED.
By JJMB
May 6, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
The Braves won’t trade Salty. They have him on the cheap for a while, and no way they’re going to dump his salary for a big one a star is going to demand.
Am I missing something?
By Bigboi
May 6, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
I agree KC i don’t like Craig Wilson at the plate either. You’re very observant.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 6, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
think chipper would mind if salty learned third and chipper moved over to first?
chipper was very angry today. classic interview with the baseball hat on backwards and chipper chewing seeds. did dob listen in on this interview?
and now, andruw’s swing. all bloggers are encouraged to take that stance and try to swing a bat. it is quickly apparent that there can only be one result unless the pitcher makes a mistake.
By Ron
May 6, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this
Well when the Yankees are in First Place come the End of September, ESPN will say how resilient the Yankees are, how they were in worst place in April, how great it was for them to be in First place in September. Yeah, that will be Resilient from a 210 MILLION dollar payroll, Hell it may be more than 210!!! They spend about 110 million more than half of the other ML clubs. Mark it down ESPN will be all over that story, Hell all the media will be over that BULLSH!T!!!
By brent a.
May 6, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this
MEB:
Redman has an ingrown toenail
JJMB:
I got to thinking the same thing about Salty
If we trade him (making nothing) for a star (who makes something) how does that fit into our payroll?
Ofcourse, if we lose Andruw (as someone else mentioned), then trading Salty for a high-salaried player who fits another need, might be what happens
Regardless, the kid is a talent at a position where we are stacked and for a team that has been losing its talent due to payroll restrictions for the last few years, it’s very nice to have problems like this.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Folks, We have to trade Salty at some point, or Mccann is going then. The kid will be ready for fulltime duty next year, he already is. We need a starting pitcher this offseason, I am guessing we would have to trade Salty to get one. Willis will be available……
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this
I think MLB should be really wary of this Clemens phenomenon. I can just imagine a trend - guys like Ortiz, Manny, Piazza - following suit and becoming half-season hired guns.
Maybe Boras will set up a mercenary camp somewhere in the desert, a place for the “retired” players (who’d really rather not mess with spring training or April, May and June) to work out; then he can place them with the contending teams that need help, at $4 or $5 mil a month, and take a piece of the action.
Right now it’s one guy, but I’d hate to see it become a trend - and it just might.
By Efrim
May 6, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
But I would love to see Salty move to first!!!!!
By Troy
May 6, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this
Just to throw this out there, I really like what I have seen out of Salty especially his skills behind the plate. So what about this (not this year perhaps in 08’ and beyond) have Both McCann and Salty work out at 1B and have them both split time at 1B/C to help keep them fresh and both in the lineup at the same time, and if they still like Thorman long term he can play LF
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this
JJMB
I agree with your philosophy. Our team is on a budget. Cheap productive fielders should give us the resources to sign Free Agent pitchers this offseason (I’d rather pay a free agent, as opposed to trade a prospect AND pay a pitcher who’s probably up on his contract).
However, who knows what JS has in store. I will say this, I trust his judgment.
By fastasballs
May 6, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this
Oh gee I can’t wait for the Sunday night conversation on ESPN. Willie Mays is going to tell us all why support for Bonds breaking the record is divided amoung racial lines.
I’m sure there are a few loons who sit around and crap on Bonds because of his race but that’s a tiny, tiny percentage of people who don’t want him to break it.
I always thought Ken Griffey Jr would be the man to do it, I wish he was.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
I did not think Willie Harris would have the success he has so far in Atlanta. I am glad I was wrong, he appears to have stepped up his game from the two times I have seen him play.
At least he does not try to hit home-runs that end up being easy fly outs. He appears to be a smart hitter who uses his speed by hitting ground balls through the holes.
He has not embarrassed himself in left field either. I have seen him play third base and he is at least as good as Woodward at that position.
I was glad to see Ryan Langerhans get two hits today for Washington. The Nationals just don’t have the pitching to be competitive but they do have some decent ballplayers on their club. Ryan will get a chance to play everyday in D.C. and perhaps that is what he needed.
I think Zimmerman is a better third baseman than David Wright of the Mets.
By JJMB
May 6, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this
brent a.
Yes, the losing Andruw angle is a possibility.
Like you said, a good problem to have.
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this
My dream world for ‘08…
McCann moves to first so he can play everyday (we really need his bat in the lineup).
Salty catches next season. Platoons with Pena? Usually a veteran backup for a rook. But I’m sure McCann can offer some guidance too. I like the defense that I’ve seen from Salty so far. I’d like to see it more often next year.
Andruw’s gone. Thorman/Diaz/Frenchy/Harris in the outfield. I’m not sure who has the 2nd best arm of the bunch. So I won’t pretend to place them where.
Put Andruw’s contract to good use in bringing in an insurance starter (Hudson, Smoltz, Hampton, James). I like James. But I’d like to keep the pressure off his shoulders another year. Keep him as the #5 starter (4 if Hampton or injuries plague).
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this
MBATL, I really don’t think we need to worry about others trying to follow Clemens’ lead. Very much an exceptional case. Teams aren’t going to be willing to do that for anything less than a potentially overpowering pitcher who could step in like Clemens at midseason and still be a huge factor.
And other players aren’t going to be willing to sacrifice the amount of money they’d be giving up by skipping the first couple of months of a season, anyway. Clemens can just command such an enormous salary and is so old that he knows he might not last an entire year if he tried to pitch the way he pitches from start to finish in a season….
STRANGER, great Yoc reference. Now that the Gymdawgs’ season is over, if she’s not tied up with recruiting and such, I think we need to get word to her that we’d like to have her blog here, or at least e-mail me with some thoughts, some philosophy and such. If she knew that this is the place where her approach and discipline are truly appreciated. Don’t come in the lane with that weak s*#$, and don’t put on the leotard if you’re not in it to win….
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this
Gil, you’re not alone. i sure didn’t think Willie Harris would look this good. I know it’s only a week, but he really looks like he can help out. We’ll see….
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this
KC, I thought the call on Chipper could have gone either way. Even Hoss said as much after seeing the replay. It wasn’t that that he was upset about as much as it was Davidson looking at the Braves’ dugout and just waiting for Bobby to hit the step so he could toss him, according to Chipper. That peeved him.
The tag was made by Salty, right on the helmet. Could see it on the replay. And from Chipper’s angle, I’m sure he could see it with the naked eye.
By krath
May 6, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this
brent a
Welcome to Atl. I’ve been a fan for years. Attend a few games every year.(3 hours away so I don’t get down as much as I would like)
I have no answers why Atl fans are so laid back and don’t get fired up about game situations. Been that way for years. I have been frequently embarassed while attending playoff games and seeing as many(or in the case of the Cubs)more and louder fans of the opposing team.
Saturday night for example, Hudson had a couple of two strike counts with men on base. A chance to end the inning with no damage. One pitch away from a K! The scoreboard with blistering flashing graphics is urging the crowd to make some noise. Hudson is looking in for the sign. The crowd responds and it’s really loud…..for 3 seconds!
By the time Hudson actually made the two strike pitch, sounded like it does when a hitter is just stepping in. A dull, low roar. No noise. Just the audio blur of people talking and vendors hawking beer. This happened repeatedly throughout the game. Tight situations. Rally situations. And fans can only manage a large roar for 3 seconds when the scoreboard urges.
I don’t know why it’s that way, it just is. Has been for years.
It’s kinda sad.
By MBATL
May 6, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this
DOB, appreciate your thoughts on it. Got to say, I could really see Bonds, or Randy Johnson (guys who have made a ton of money, but wouldn’t mind making more, and don’t really want to walk away from the game, but don’t want to work quite so hard either), for instance, doing something like this, and I think it would be bad for the game.
But, I’m not losing sleep over it (except tonight, I guess). You’re probably right.
By JJMB
May 6, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this
meansonny
Although I hesitate to blindly trust anyone’s judgement, I will admit JS has put together a damn good team this year.
Saltalamacchia, McCann, Francoeur, are like the gold found at Sutter’s mill.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 6, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this
I don’t get it… What would race have to do with Bonds breaking Arron’s record. Unless I have missed something They are of the same race although rumors are Bonds may not be of this planet.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
Coach Yoc, on behalf of O’B, CR & JR, Braves Nation is calling.
There’s no cryin’ in baseball or gymnastics. And there’s no cryin’ here. The Braves/Man in Black blog is always open to winners.
By New Guy
May 6, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this
DOB, I am a student at UGA and Coach Yoc did a guest lecture in my marketing class. You would have enjoyed it. She definitely knows what she’s doing.
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this
Everytime I sit down low, the usher’s keep coming over and ask my family and i to sit down. Even in the 9th.
It’s not encouraged by STAFF.
Not a big deal. I know what to expect and how I’m expected to cheer. That’s why a good sports bar can be as fun to watch a game (unless I’m with my kids).
By journalist jimmy smith
May 6, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this
any braves wearing leotards this season? diaz, maybe? and willie harris … is willie the real deal? will hudson try to learn to bunt better or is that a no-no during the season where hudson might hurt a finger practicing? of course, if hudson could bunt when called on, it could help win the game. and pay for play … if the team is paying andruw huge dollars to play baseball can bobby not insist that andruw change that stance and try to put the ball in play? is that insulting or demeaning or unreasonable? jimmy smith remembers when hof’er mike schmidt tried to help a pathetic, struggling pat burrell and burrell told mike schmidt to mind mike’s own business. sometimes others can help. laroche dropped in the pirates order, can andruw be far behind? and this journalist saw barry pitch last year and it was not pretty. journalist votes for lerew since lerew is reported to be pitching well now. supposed to have some nasty stuff, right? and paronto is doing really well, isn’t paronto? good to see a man who had to give up his pants last season finally get some respect.
By Henry
May 6, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this
Very encouraging game today, most of all the performance of Kyle Davies. I’m really rooting for the kid, and today was his best performance in a month, by far.
Echoing was KC said above, with all the excitement over KJ at second and Chipper’s resurgence at third, Renteria’s solid performance has been seriously overlooked by most of Braves Nation. When you wrote about KJ and Hoss as all-star candidates a week ago, DOB, I thought that Renteria and McCann were also deserving of consideration by the voters, and that Hudson must surely be a leading candidate for the pitching staff. Unfortunately, I suspect Chipper loses to Wright, undeservedly; Renteria loses to Reyes — can’t say a lot about that one, honestly, both are deserving; and KJ probably loses to Utley. Maybe McCann has a chance; I don’t see an overwhelming favorite in that field, and certainly no one superior to him. And Andruw may make it purely on reputation in the OF.
Was a little disappointed not to see our old friend Langy on the ballot. Since there were only two Braves available in the outfield, I went ahead and wrote him in as my third choice. I encourage you to do likewise. Give the guy a break.
By The Stranger
May 6, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this
O’B, I realize Coach Yoc is the greatest coach in collegiate gymnastics history, but in a career sense, I would still have to think that guest blogging here would be some pretty good exposure. How could she say no? We’ve got powerful alums that are regular degenerates on this blog - let’s make this happen.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this
KC-I got to go with David on this one. I saw replays of both Chipper’s swing and Salty’s tag. I would have called it a check swing, but it could have gone either way. Salty DEFINITELY made that tag. Any harder and he would have knocked the Dude’s helmet off. He might have gotten the call if he had.
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this
JJMB
I’m imagining a lineup where Chipper and Renty are the only players making over $1M.
Sock money away for long term contracts in case we want to lockup Johnson and Frenchy (I think we will). Spend money maintaining our bullpen, and bring in another starter.
But like I said, I trust JS’s judgment over my own with this team. If he doesn’t feel that there’s a viable free agent pitcher out there, I’m sure he’ll get the most he can for Salty.
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this
Henry, if the All-Star picks were made today, whether voted in or added to the roster, I think you’d see Hudson, Kelly J., Chipper, BMac and probably Renteria all on the team. Seriously. I think all five would have a very good chance if they keep this up.
Bradley was going to write about Renteria today, which I said I thought would be a great idea, because you’re right _ he gets so overlooked, and he’s just such a solid, dependable player. But then Bradley and I both agreed that Salty is a big story right now, and you don’t know how long he will be. This was the time to write about him for Bradley, made sense on the day Salty gets his first hit and his first game-winning RBI.
By Lew
May 6, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this
Absolutely-I’m a Dawg alum. Woof Woof.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this
Race has nothing to do with bonds breaking Hank’s record. I believe it all boils down to …respect. Respect of the game. Respect of the rules. Respect of the legends that played in other times. barry bonds has no respect for any of those things. He’s too worried about getting his respect. I could harp on that all night but it won’t change anything. What I can do is pay no attention to the record. Thats how us, the casual fan, can give the game it’s respect. All barry wants is us all to cry or rejoice (any emotion really) about HIS record. Hate or love at least people are paying attention to him. If we all do like Hank and Bud, and just look the other way, then he won’t get his day in the sun. That really is the only thing we can do. Now if damn ESPN would do the same (fat chance in h3ll).
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this
I’m expecting the big bats to wake up tomorrow against Chris Young. He strikes out a lot of hitters. But I think he has a tendancy to leave his pitches up.
I know that Chipper and Andruw have had big success at the plate against Young.
Hopefully Chuck can make it 5 solid starts in a row for the Braves dating back till May 1st (Redman).
By Henry
May 6, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this
At first look, I thought Chipper got robbed on the third strike call, but from the thirdbase ump/camera angle, I agreed with the call.
Chipper sure was upset, though. My daughter walked through the room about the time he was hollering at the ump, and reading Hoss’s lips, she asked me, “Dad, why does he want the ump to vacuum?”
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this
New Guy, we envy you. We all need a guest lecture from Yoc to fire us up and set us straight.
OK, someone at UGa, take it upon yourself to stop by her office, send her a note, whatever, and let her know the denizens of Braves/Man in Black are calling….
Speaking of Gymdogs (is it Gymdawgs, Gym Dogs, or what?), one of Yoc’s star ladies is on Channel 3 sports right now, Courtney Kupets. Classy, of course. With her coach, how could she not be?
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this
KJ deserves to be an all-start. I just heard something on one of the sports radio stations; a guy was giving his speech,ranking great lead-off guys in the national league. I thought “for sure he’s gonna rank KJ up high” but nope, not even a mention. He’s getting no attention on a national level. He’s probably gonna get overlooked this year.
By BabyGoatEater
May 6, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
So glad the Muts lost. later all
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this
Meansonny, here’s something you’ll like about Chris Young: In two starts vs. Braves last season he was rocked for 15 hits (six home runs) and 13 runs in six innings (three innings in each). Chipper is 4-for-4 with a homer against him, and Andruw is 3-for-7 with three homers.
Maybe, just maybe, Andruw could have a breakout game. (I said maybe)
By Ron
May 6, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this
DOB,I was reading on mlbtraderumors.com, and they thought that there was a chance Jeff Weaver would be released or traded, you think that the Braves might be interested in him for the 4th or 5th spot?
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this
Henry, that’s hilarious, that line about your daughter wondering why Chipper wanted Davidson to vacuum. Very good.
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this
Kupets is the Olympian, I believe.
Yoc not only is a great coach. She’s a great recruiter. She’s like her own universe that sucks in talent and championships. I’ve read stories about gymnasts not even seeing the campus before they sign up. WOW!
Go Dawgs. Go Braves!
By Ron
May 6, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this
DOB, another question for you, I have seen Blanco in some spring games and he looks like a good player, never seen Brandon Jones play, heard he is very good. Who do you think has the better chance to be in Atlant next year, Brandon Jones, or Blanco, and who would you rather see in Atlanta next year?
By David O'Brien
May 6, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
Ron, I don’t know. Weaver never really has struck me as a Braves-type player, at all. But I haven’t heard anything either way about him. Just seems like that’d be adding another big question mark rather than an answer.
By meansonny
May 6, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
LOL DOB
Like tomorrow, there’s alway maybe.
Braves were 7-2 last season against the Pads. We’re going against Young and Germano (I hope we don’t get the 1st time seeing him jitters). Should be 2 good offensive games for us.
Then we counter with Smoltz and Hudson. Here’s to maybe!
By David O'Brien
May 7, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this
Ron, I think Brandon Jones will be here, probably next year. Can’t say same about Blanco.
Don’t really want to say who I “want” to see here. That’s not important, anyway.
Jones is a well-rounded prospect who projects to hit for average and power, and has a strong arm and good range, good speed.
By The Grinch
May 7, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this
DOB, imagine Sigourney Weaver floating above the bed a la “Ghostbusters” and instead of saying “There is no god…only ZOUL” she says “There are no dogs…only DAWGS!” Thus is the vernacular of which you speak. Courtney Kuppets (?) is the kind of girl who straps that thing on when it counts…even during competition. The leotard, I mean. :-) I missed the game today, but told you so about Salty (not you Dave, the unwashed heathen masses that both comprise and compromise this blog).
By The Stranger
May 7, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this
…or C-Kupps, as she’s known in these parts.
By Ron
May 7, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this
I hear you about Weaver, he probably would be another question mark. To be honest with you DOB, when Andruw leaves, (I like Andruw, but it aint no way we can afford him,) and if the Braves dont want to move Salty to another position, I would not mind to see both Blanco in CF, and Brandon Jones in RF, instead of goin after another CF in Free agency, and saving whatever is left of the Budget and spending it on locking up Frenchy, and signing a Starting Pitcher if necessary or whoever else the Braves might like!!!
By Baron
May 7, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this
I forgot to preface my coverage by saying that I wrote from the perspective of the winner’s each night.
By Baron
May 7, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this
And of course froom the perspective of a stoner correspondent.
By DAP
May 7, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this
this blog is outrageous sometimes. heres what i do. i stay away from the blog during the whole game, and then i come back and read all the posts from the start of the game to the end. its crazy some of the things that are written on here! some people give up so quickly! its funny to see how fickle we are. anyways…
im glad we pulled this one out, but ive never understood the way bobby gives guys days off. he should never give EVERYONE the day off at the same time. give ONE of your big hitters a day off at a time, so the other can pick up the slack. i guess it worked out today, though.
woodward hardly ever get hits, but he looks better not hitting than andruw does. woodward can at least work a count before he makes an out most of the time. andruw really needs help right now.
letting woodward hit with the bases loaded i think was a move by bobby to give woodward a chance to succeed. thats good that he does that, but i think we need to play every game with a sense of urgency. it wasnt 0-0 in the first inning. the game was getting late, and we needed to get the lead back. probably not a good time to try and boost woodward’s confidence.
By jed
May 7, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this
—So far, I havent seen anyone posting about Willie Harris. He’s 6 for 12, last I checked, and playing well in LF.
—I agree on Renteria. He gets overlooked. Solid as they come. An improvement, even, over Furcal, although Furcal is great to watch. —Why dont we just start Villareal on Tuesday? I could see bringing up Lerew, but only if that’s an official audition. —Salty looks good. I know it’s way too early for all this speculation, and we have no idea how he’d perform if he stayed up here for a while, and i thoroughly agree that he has the most value as a catcher, but uh…it also doesnt take a genius to see that he already looks like a much better option than Thorman. —I see speculation on dropping Andruw in the lineup, mostly “move Francouer to cleanup.” Isnt the obvious cleanup hitter McCann at this point? how bout: 1/KJ
2/Renteria 3/Chipper 4/McCann 5/Andruw 6/Francouer 7/Thorman 8/Willie Harris
—Lastly, who’s the bigger megalomanical drama queen: Curt Schilling or Roger Clemens? (And, as per my post 3 weeks ago, sure enough on ESPN, they said that Clemens joined the Yankees because he was “all about winning Championships”—as if that’s a GOOD thing. You want to be a hero, Roger? Sign with the Astros and deliver them a championship. Signing with the Yankees because you’re “all about winning” is about as admirable as signing up with the Nazis because they’re “committed to winning this thing.” Moral of the story? We live in a very warped culture.
By fastasballs
May 7, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this
Blanco is not very high on the list to make it here. His lack of power probably is the reason.
Jones has the power. I saw him a few times when he with the Pelicans, he didn’t hit much those games but his glove was excellent & he has a strong arm.
I think he has a good chance to play left next year. Probably a free agent patrols center next year. Who knows, JS may rape some team on a deal later in the year & bring someone in by trade.
JS is setting this team up for the next decade with a group of core players already here & the others being groomed on the farm. Once the young pitching either developes or is brought in it may be deja vu for the rest of the league. Maybe better because never did the Braves have an offense like this in the 90’s. Well maybe 1998.
Ok I’m taking my rose colored glasses off & going to bed.
By Baron
May 7, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this
So I guess Davies is Okay?
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 1:28 AM | Link to this
Good post Jed. I agree with the lineup card. I still like having a bat behind Andruw to give him a little protection. At least Francouer can take a pitch the other way.
Doesn’t mean much, but ESPN has Villareal penciled in for Tuesday.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this
Saltalamacchia knows what he’s doing and is going to succeed as a catcher in this league… We may have 2 of the top 5 or 6 catchers in baseball under the age of 25 right now… BUT, that is actually a problem when you’re in the national league. I just hope that if we do trade this guy (how can we not?) the return ultimately can meet what we give away. The only way I see that happening is a trade for a future center fielder (Pie from Chicago?) or a proven #2 or #3 starter; and maybe a pitching prospect with #1 potential. It just really sucks we can’t find a place somewhere for him in the lineup every day.
And on a positive note, what about Thorman so far this season? I think he’s actually exceeded my expectations thus far…
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this
I hadn’t had a chance to read this whole blog as of yet. So I’m not sure of all the topics of the day.
Kudo’s to the AJC on the sports section Sunday. Lots of good baseball stuff.
I really liked the quotes from Kelly on leading off. What hit me the most was when he conceded that he wasn’t a 40 HR hitter at this level, and admitted to taking a little off his swing. Kind of neat to think about a successful player at every level having to decide what type of player he wants to be in the Bigs.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this
And I don’t often criticize Cox, but I don’t understand not starting Thorman against most lefties. Didn’t we see when LaRoche started getting regular time against lefties he took off? Wouldn’t the Braves be better off as an organization to see if Thorman is ready to be a full time player right now instead of in 2 1/2 years? I will be p** if the Braves re-sign Wilson or someone similar in the offseason.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this
DOB Wrote:
Gil, you’re not alone. i sure didn’t think Willie Harris would look this good. I know it’s only a week, but he really looks like he can help out. We’ll see…
I agree. I love what he offers to the bottom of the order. A good contact hitter with some speed; Setting up KJ, Renteria and Chipper… I do agree I didn’t think he’d be this good; and I doubt he’ll have 6 hits every 13 AB’s for the rest of the season. But, I LOVE THE SPEED HE BRINGS!
By jed
May 7, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this
The enthusiasm for Thorman is nice and all, and I’ve gotta admit he’s doing better than I thought he would, but I dont understand the desire to see him playing every game (see: DonC, above). The only hits I see him get are god-awful hangers that even I could hit. His fielding is average at best, and will become a liability if we make the playoffs. I think Cox is doing the right thing by platooning him, as it gives a player with limited ability at this point every possible chance at contributing. Personally, I’d like to see what happened if Wilson started getting enough at-bats to get his stroke back.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this
DOB do you feel like I do that Kyle Davies is more than likely to be pitching in the Major leagues the entire season? As long as he gives a game like today every 3rd or 4th time out you know Cox will keep trotting him out there… (hes better than using Redman)
By Fred Secunda
May 7, 2007 2:30 AM | Link to this
As much as I’d love to keep him, I see Salty going the way of Andy Marte and being traded in the offseason, but he will be able to land us some premier pitching or at least a center fielder to replace Andruw. That being said, I would not be disappointed if the follwing deal went down:
Milwaukee gets: C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
Atlanta gets: CF Bill Hall
Then our lineup would look something like this:
Hall is versatile and can spell Chipper at third and Renteria at short, and Milwaukee would have a long term solution at catcher and an improvement over Estrada, who is simply not the player he was before his injury. Thoughts?
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:36 AM | Link to this
Thorman a defensive liability? I agree he’s no Derrek Lee at first base; but a liability compared to Craig Wilson? That argument doesn’t hold water.
And Wilson playing more time to get his stroke back? He hasn’t had a good stroke since the 2005 season. How about making him a PERMANENT backup 1B and full time pinch hitter. That is where he would benefit us most in the playoffs.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this
Fred I would think we could get Hall and a ML ready pitching prospect for Saltalamacchia. Salty is more rare a prospect than even a starter with Ace potential (notice I didn’t say “valuable” there). Nobody, and I mean nobody in baseball has a 22 year old switch hitting catcher with .300-30-100 potential and a plus arm. (And he’s major league ready now.) This guy should command a bounty!
By Chop Chop
May 7, 2007 3:12 AM | Link to this
Since I’m awake…
Chipper definitely checked his swing. His hands went, but the bat didn’t…if that makes any sense.
Sexual baseball euphemistically speaking, I guess that’s third base? Balk-A-Day Bob didn’t feel the romance.
Yeah…I’m tired. Time to hit the hay.
By Fred Secunda
May 7, 2007 3:12 AM | Link to this
Don, I like the way you think. Yes, Salty has looked great this year, he’s got a cannon and all the potential in the world, but I have to reiterate the point DOB keeps making…that he has yet to prove himself over the course of a full season above A ball. Now if he keeps this pace up, he’ll be considered a lot more of a sure thing, and we probably could get more than just Hall for him.
But check out the numbers on Hall: in 2005, .291-17-62; in 2006, .270-35-85. He strikes out a lot 162 times in 537 at bats last year, but his walk total almost doubled from his first full season in the bigs as he drew 63 free passes in ‘06. Of to a bit of a slow start in ‘07.
I don’t know enough about the top level pitching prospects in the Brew Crew system, but you can bet Schuerholz and Frank Wren do.
So Don, what would you like to see happen with the shortstop situation? Is Edgar still the guy next year, or will it be Escobar?
By jed
May 7, 2007 3:59 AM | Link to this
Yes, Thorman is a defensive liability, and he’s gonna stick out like Brian Hunter and Ryan Klesko did when we get to the playoffs. Or did you miss the play Saturday night when he somehow couldnt field the ball Andruw threw to him? No, Wilson’s not exactly LaRoche or D.Lee either… But, friend, Thor’s hitting .270 in a platoon. If he were facing lefties, he’d be hitting substantially less. As for Wilson, he was injured last year, and yes, he’s started slow this year, but I still say you’re overvaluing Thorman while undervaluing Wilson.
By Bob, journalist
May 7, 2007 6:01 AM | Link to this
if the team is paying andruw huge dollars to play baseball can bobby not insist that andruw change that stance and try to put the ball in play? is that insulting or demeaning or unreasonable?
No, but… Andruw needs to be embarrassed … like pinch hit for, in the middle of an at-bat following a pitiful swing … and then benched for the first three innings of the next game.
I’ totally against booing but booing Andruw’s pathetic, ball pulling performances really might help him.
In the old days, kids didn’t tell the teachers what and how to teach … of course, they didn’t take guns to school to back their play either.
Worst call of the year … how could an umpire miss a player getting hit in the noggin’ so hard that the head recoiled from the shock?
By ncscoots
May 7, 2007 6:43 AM | Link to this
Those clamoring for a position move for McCann and/or Salty seem to think that playing 1B or LF is as simple as picking up a different glove. Both these guys seem, to me, to be “baseball players” as opposed to “athletes”, i.e., they have very specific skill sets rather than general athletic ability. It just won’t be as easy as bloggers think for either to pick up a new position and play it as well.
I’d think that holds true for the “sharing” scenario, too…in spades.
By ssiscribe
May 7, 2007 6:45 AM | Link to this
Good morning, denizens of the ol’ Braves/MIB blogosphere. The Scribe, abiding as always, apologizes for not being too frequent of a visitor the past couple of weeks.
Things get in the way, frankly, but alas, this is life. Still, hoping this week finds me back in a normal rhythm of things, especially with the ballclub playing so well of late. Every game, for the most part, is a thrill, even the losses. Went Saturday night with the family and had a great time. I’m an ol’ school traditionalist, so I love a well-pitched game, and Huddy and D.Lowe gave us that, definitely.
Didn’t see much of the game yesterday, but it sounded like a dandy. Bob Davidson wanting to be on camera? Jeez, nothing new there. Bobby getting tossed? Yeah, nothing new there, either. Salty coming through? Now that’s a story.
What to do with this kid? Get him some more ABs up here, then send him back down, let him play every day, and keep him behind the plate. Don’t mean to foster any bad memories or call into play bad karma for one of the pillars of the franchise in Brian McCann, but every time somebody barrels toward home plate, I think of Johnny Estrada getting steamrolled at home plate a couple of years ago. For now, keep Salty behind the plate. I think his future is at first base.
Now, Willie Harris (noted transition). Or, a correx: Willie C. Harris. Love the way this guy plays, his hustle, his enthusiasm, his energy and his love of the game. His speed helps, too. Gotta keep this guy in there, along with Diaz. Maybe together, those two can hold down left field.
Now, this week (more transition): Off to a great start. Boys eating cheese toast (never too early to introduce young scribes to the delights of cheese). Hit the gym for an hour this morning. Looking ahead to the Padres series, and Smoltz vs. Maddux on Wednesday night. Wish I could slip away for that one.
Now, fish (transitional update for JJS): Scribe has been frying fish, but smaller fish than I spoke of recently. That big fish still is in play, and hopefully, we’ll know something soon. But if not, the fisherman Scribe still is doing well. The smaller fish the Scribe is frying deals with ice and diamonds … maybe one of these days this summer, I can poke my head back into the door and say hi to the crew down at the ol’ yard across from the KFC/Taco Bell. We shall see.
And, if the big fish comes in, I know one Scribe who will be looking into a 40-game package … whatever will be, is cool.
Now, Yoc: Done my fair share of the football Dogs (yet to have found the dictionary that spells it “Dawgs,” although I did allow myself to let that fly once or twice from the Big Easy a few years ago). Never, though, has this noted Scribe spoken with Yoc. (Question: can a Scribe be a noted Scribe if he hasn’t talked to Yoc? Ah, the quandries of life)
But I digress. If she jumps on the ol’ blog, I’d be delighted. That ol’ gym coach, and her program, are winners, plain and simple.
Been a fun start to the season. Grinch, bro, let’s get together and get to a game soon. Nearly a month of being straight-up sober has me flying the right way at long and blessed last. Think I’ll stick with my Diet Coke in one hand and tomahawk in another.
Let’s keep it rollin, brothers and sisters. The Scribe abides.
—30—
By ernesto
May 7, 2007 6:55 AM | Link to this
I really hope the Bravos don’t trade Salty. I think that kid is going to be something special. But just the fact that they’re adamant about keeping him at catcher and not even experimenting with him at other positions - makes you think they are keeping the door wide open for trades.
Still the old saying is true if you can keep hitting they’ll find a place for you. Pujols was once blocked by McGuire. (Yeah, I know, Big Mac was winding it down, and not a 23-year old stud)
Of course, the Bravos could let him season up one more year in the minors and then work with him at a new position, ala KJ, in the off season - I could see that making sense too.
By Ron Roberts
May 7, 2007 6:55 AM | Link to this
*By MBATL
May 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Ron Roberts, and others: I love the special powers you have that you could pull pitchers just before they give up runs. Davies was solid; decent pitch count, 1 out from getting through 7. If he could’ve finished the inning, we’d have saved a pitcher, basically, because he was due to lead off in the bottom half. I’m sure you knew that the pinch hitter with a .140 average was gonna take him long, though.
Regardless of that, it was a good start for him. 4 runs in 6 2/3; 6 hits and 2 walks. One pitch from a great start, but if he gives us that kind of effort most times out, that’ll be just fine.*
MBATL… look back and find the last time Kyle Davies had pitched that long in a game, dude. Yeah, I’m sorry, but I’m gonna be cocky enough to say I would have been considering sitting Davies after six solid innings…
..because he hadn’t pitched six solid innings in an entire month!!!
Eric In MO & Tomahawkin’ Again, etc… I think y’all are mistaking some of us as being Cox-bashers. Not the case with me. I respect Bobby Cox and I’m still thrilled he’s managing when he could’ve retired years ago. But yesterday’s game was shaping up to be a classic frustrating loss, and it’s hard to not to see that.
I completely understand giving Chipper the game off. But it wasn’t just that he didn’t use Chipper in the 6th when Woodward came up; it’s that he didn’t go to Chipper or McCann or Pete Orr or Willie Harris…
THe starting lineup included Craig Wilson instead of Scott Thorman (who’s hitting well of late), and Woodward and Saltalamacchia instead of McCann (which I also understand given McCann’s recent finger issues). But taking Chipper, Thorman and McCann out on the same day really weakens the lineup, too. Doing it on a day when Kyle Davies or Mark Redman would be starting is sort of mind-boggling, too, since it’s been our experience thus far in ‘07 that when *they& pitch, we need to score runs.
See what I’m saying? It was a cumulatively badly managed game yesterday. Fortunately, their manager’s pulling of Wolfe for Tsao, who he then promptly left in for too long, overshadowed Cox’s mis-steps yesterday.
Again, understand this….I’m not a Bobby Cox basher; but I think I have the right, as a lifelong Braves fan, to say he didn’t have a good day, and be thankful the team pulled this one out, anyhow. What should have been a frustrating loss became a very nice win for us.
All Mets fans… suck it, chumps. You’ve yet to run away with it, New Yawkahs; make room at the top for your nemesis… you know, the team that has a .667 winning percentage against ya.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this
I love these guys who were not blogging during the game but then come around after the game and criticize all the guys who were actually blogging during the game for being critical when things were not going well during the game.
It’s freaking baseball people. What do you expect them to do? That is part of the fun of watching a baseball game or any sport. You get sucked in and angry and happy about the ups and downs.
Do you guys really just sit there without any emotion, sitting on your hands, saying nothing? Come on. Be serious already.
If you do, you are a terrible fan - much like the ones described above who do not even know when to cheer or not or when to rise to their feet during a game. You are the apathetic fans that give the Braves fan base a terrible reputation for being disinterested.
The problem is not with the ones on here who have passion for chrissakes.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this
Andruw is just being Andruw. He is not a true cleanup hitter and never has been. BUT the guy is a great player for what he is. There will come a time, probably in June and July, when Edgar, KJ, Chipper, Frenchy, & McCann are slumping or injured, and Andruw will carry this team for a month. Benching him or pinch hitting for him will not solve anything. That is a rather stupid idea from fans. Dropping him a spot or two in the lineup would be appropriate. Bobby has done so in the past. Go check out the ole box scores from April, May, and June 2005 where Druw started off as the cleanup guy but when he was playing like crap, Bobby dropped him down as far as seventh and he never got higher than fifth until Mid June when he went on the homer barrage.
By ncscoots
May 7, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this
There’s a school of thought that says, if you’re going to rest regulars, rest them when one of your lesser pitchers is going…lower probability of winning the game regardless of lineup than when a top-tier starter is going. In that regard, there was nothing wrong with the lineup card yesterday (though Davies might have had a yikes moment when he saw it, LOL).
Fine outing for Kyle, 3-to-2 strike-to-ball ratio, fastball had good life, and, yes, I’d thrown a Davies curveball to a .140 pinch hitter, too. Eight out of ten times in that situation the pitcher DOESN’T hang it, and Betemit gets himself out. That’s baseball. But there was certainly no reason not to run Davies out there in the seventh, as MBATL noted earlier and well.
By Dave
May 7, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this
PLEASE TRADE ANDRUW-the guy is the biggest garbage hitter ever. Look at what his batting average is with RISP. He is so overrated it is scary. He has been in the league for years and has absolutely NO plate discipline.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this
found a cool picture of ryan langerhans on the net with changing hats, check it out:
http://futonreport.net/index.php/2007/1738469
By ernesto
May 7, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this
Willy Wally - Good call. (Of course, easy for me to say since I said the same thing earlier).
You don’t bench that glove, but dropping him down might get his attention. If not, the occassional HR he yanks would help in the 7th spot.
We’ve got to get more production out of our CLEAN UP hitter.
By Ron Roberts
May 7, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this
NCScoots…. as I mentioned earlier, there are two very sound reasons not to trot Davies out there past the sixth…
He’d not pitched longer than four innings in two weeks, and not longer than 5 1/3 innings in a month.
He’d enjoyed a good outing. Going further presses your luck. We have a dynamic bullpen, with a two-headed closer situation right now, and had arms to pitch the 7th, 8th and 9th. Why not get Davies outta there while his head was high? He has every reason to be proud of the performance he gave last night, and I certainly hope he takes the positives from it and builds from there. I just hope the last inning he pitched isn’t what he dwells on from yesterday.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this
Mr Baseball, very good point about Francoeur, who hit, what, .260 last year. I don’t think it’s a coincidence he hit so much better in clutch situations last year, and has led the majors in two-out RBIs since the beginning of last season. I mean, him and A-Rod have been going neck-and-neck in that race. And all the others in the top five are superstars. So why is Frenchy in there (that would be a question for Shaun).
Easy to answer: Look who Francouer has been hitting behind. Look at the lineup he’s been in. Look at how often he’s come to the plate. He’s gotten perhaps more RBI opportunities than anyone over the past two seasons.
Nothing against Francouer. He’s going to be a fine major league hitter and has made tremendous strides this season. But RBI aren’t a great measure of production. RBI are very context dependent.
By Bigboi
May 7, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this
The Betemit trade looks worse everyday. I know his ave is a little low right now but he’s a heck of a player. Oh, and why does everyone keep speculating about left field for next year? We have a great one in Willie Harris, what else does this guy have to do to garner your respect?
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this
Bigboi,
Betemit is hitting .155 AVG/ .316 OBP/ .293 SLG.
Don’t judge him by two plate appearances.
By Hoss Fan Club
May 7, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this
DOB
Any chance of Chipper being fined for his comments, I didn’t know if MLB worked like the NBA regarding slamming the umpires, not that he wasn’t right
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Those three and the rotating Nos. 5-6 hitters, Brian McCann and Jeff Francoeur, have carried the offense, with cleanup hitter Andruw Jones still trying to find his stride.
Andruw is tied with McCann in rate at which they avoid outs (.376 OBP).
Sure he hasn’t slugged as well as he normally does but he’s still only about a good week, 1/2 week away from getting his numbers back to his normal level.
It’s still very early. Andruw is only 9 hits away from Kelly Johnson; that’s about a good week or even 1/2 week from being right up there with him.
Andruw hasn’t been quite as good as normal in the power department but I’m sure he’s had worse stretches in his career. Much like Alex Rodriguez has had stretches like his early ‘07 but everyone seems to ignore it simply because it’s the beginning of the season in ‘07.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this
As far as early season numbers, look at Oscar Villarreal. His ERA is 4.61 but he has 20 K and only 6 BB in just over 13 IP. He basically has had one bad outing and two or three mediocre ones.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 7, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this
Damn Ron Roberts….All Met fans suck? That’s just too much hate bottled up in one person. It’s early Monday morning and the negative karma will make you sick from the inside out my friend…..
By ncscoots
May 7, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
Yes, AJ is still avoiding outs, but he is failing at his primary offensive role, i.e., producing runs. Re being a “good week-and-a-half” from his normal numbers, there is no current indication that his mechanics will allow him to have such a stretch.
Announcers have mentioned that AJ sees on film the nature of his problems, and even addresses it during BP, but he has not been able to take any corrections into game action. Therein lies the roadblock to any hot streak in which he can start producing runs.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 7, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
Good morning all…. Here is a link to a nice article by Tim Parrell of the Times Dispatch on some of the young arms on the Richmond Braves staff. It reinforces why I do not think the Braves are going to make any trades for pitching right now. The link may not be automatic so you may have to copy and paste to get to the site.
[http://www.timesdispatch.com/cva/ric/sports.apx.-content-articles-RTD-2007-05-07-0062.html]
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 7, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this
This link might work better…. http://www.timesdispatch.com/cva/ric/sports.apx.-content-articles-RTD-2007-05-07-0062.html
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 7, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this
This link might work better…. http://www.timesdispatch.com/cva/ric/sports.apx.-content-articles-RTD-2007-05-07-0062.html
By Ron Roberts
May 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
No Chop Zone…* Do you have a reading impairment?
Anyhow, just thought I’d enjoy a little standings-pointing. You’re certainly quick to point out when things go your way.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
Betemit:
2005: .305, .359, .435
2006: .263, .326, .469
Don’t let 58 at bats fool you Shaun. You can’t champion sample size arguments only when convenient for you. Be consistent. You can’t have it both ways all the time.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
ncscoots,
I don’t know for sure, but I’d guess Andruw has had at least a few similar month-and-a-half stretches in his career (maybe even worse or longer stretches).
Would it be better to Andruw to have started off hot? Of course. But it’s still only 30 games. 30 games isn’t all that much in baseball terms.
I don’t think we should be concerned about Andruw’s start at this point.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
If RBIs are so darn context dependent, then how come with all of this player movement, you don’t see guys go from bad teams to good teams and go from 70 RBI guys to 125 RBI guys? Answer me that riddle.
By Kentavo
May 7, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
Could it be (subconsciously) that AJ is underperforming so that his value will drop so that the Braves can afford to re-sign him?
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
For those who think RBI are the best measure for production: Do you really think Carlos Lee and Adrian Gonzalez have been the two most productive hitters in the NL?
Neither even rank in the top 40 in the majors in OPS.
Gonzalez ranks 26th in the NL in OPS behind Ryan Church. Carlos Lee doesn’t even rank in the top 40 in the NL!
By Jim
May 7, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
For those people complaining about benching both Chipper and MJcCann on a day when the 4th starter was pitching, take a look at the Mets lineup yesterday and then go on the Mets blog and blast willie Randolf. Playing Chipper against the Phillies on Wed. and resting him yesterday makes good sense. McCann was not playing in a day game after a night game, but the guy replacing him is no slouch. Wilson starting against lefties was the same recipe Bobby’s been using all year.
Davies hasn’t pitched 7 innings in two years, but he’s had pitch counts that were more than his pitch count yesterday. He gave no indication of losing effectiveness before the hanging curve he threw to Betemint. If you need to get 7 innings + out of your starters to save the bullpen, its got to start somewhere.
The long-term question about what to do with Salty can wait for now. The near-term decision is to keep him on the roster through the Red Sox series and use both Salty and McCann as catchers/DH.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
Willy Wally,
If you are impressed by the following numbers for a 3B, I don’t know what to say:
2005: .305, .359, .435
2006: .263, .326, .469
Those are decent numbers but far from good for a major league 3B. The trade looks bad because Aybar hasn’t played, obviously, but it’s not bad because of what Betemit has done.
I think the Braves are better off with Chipper at 3B and Renteria at SS and Johnson at 2B rather than Betemit at SS than Betemit at any of those positions. And it’s not even close.
Also, with RBI, guys’ RBI totals do fluctuate. See my post about Carlos Lee and Adrian Gonzalez leading the NL. Do you really think they are even close to the two most productive hitters in the NL?
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this
Willy Wally and Shaun are right about Andruw.
He’s fine. He should be dropped in the order. He’s producing right now, just not to the fans liking (because of his stance and K’s).
Over 11 games (4/20 to 5/1), AJ hit 15 out of 38 (.394 AVG) with 9 runs, 6 doubles, 2 HR’s, 11 RBI, and 9 BB.
But all everyone notices are the 11 K’s during that span.
Ease up on the guy. He’s contributing. But not to the extent to keep him at #4 in the order. He’ll hit another good stretch (and then fall cold again). That’s Andruw.
NC Scoots, there is your indication that Andruw’s swing will perform to the same level as he has in the past. Another stretch like that, and his AVG will be .260+, his HR’s, RBI’s, SLG, and OPS will be with or better than Francouer (with his higher walk total giving him a better OBP).
By Efrim
May 7, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Lets see Chuck James go 7 innings tonight.
7 IP, 5 Hits, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K’s
We need him to go a little deep tonight, because we have Kevin Barry/Oscar Villareal/Anthony Lerew going tomorrow night.
And James hasn’t looked good all season……
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Fred Secunda
I’ve got to call you on your comments about Estrada.
Since he’s left Atlanta, he’s hitting .299 with 3 HR’s and 80 RBI. That is over 138 games. The big stat is that he’s only struck out 40 times.
He’s virtually the same player (contact hitter who doesn’t walk or strikeout a lot. Likes to put the ball in play).
You knock Estrada, when his stats are comparable to Bill Hall (different players. But take Hall’s power & strikeouts in tradeoff with Estrada’s contact and situational hitting).
I don’t mind letting Salty go. But not for an above average position player making ~$4 Million next season. (If we wanted one that bad, couldn’t we sign one in Free Agency without giving up a top prospect? According to DOB, these guys are a dime a dozen).
Our need is starting pitching. Our trades should focus solely on pitching (with Hampton being Hampton, Smoltz’s age, and Huddy needing full health for his finesse).
By Lew
May 7, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
WillyWally-Don’t agree with you on the Tampa Bay area (and BTW-the Rays were only a peripheral to a proposed trade we discussed the other day), but you nailed it right on about Andruw. This is his 12th year in the bigs. If he hasn’t made the adjustment from a pull, bad ball hitter already, then the chances of him doing it at all are slim at best. He will get hot and carry the team, as you say, but people should quit with the expectations of this leopard changing his stripes. He is what he is-Andruw being Andruw.
By Dave
May 7, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Dave if you look at Andruw’s worth and how much talent he DOES have, he is overrated. How many all-star teams does he make, how many runs does he drive in with men in scoring position, what is his on-base percentage, how many WS teams has he played on, how many of those RBIs are driven in when the game is meaningless? He clearly is a good player, no doubt, one of the best all-time in defense and he plays every game, I give him a ton of credit for that but in terms of his value versus how much he takes off the payroll, he isn’t worth it, he doesn’t play big…he will be GONE at the end of the year, mark my words, because his agent will want WAY too much money for what he is worth. He is not a clutch player—AT ALL. That is why he’ll be gone. He’ll command $15-20 mil a year and he just isn’t worth it. He is a garbage player. Andruw Jones career avg with nobody on-.277 Andruw Jones career avg with RISP w/ 2 outs-.223 This year .278 with nobody on .188 w RISP w/ 2 outs GARBAGE PLAYER
By A.J.
May 7, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
Replays showed his checked-swing call was close and could’ve gone either way.
That’s beat writer for, “WE GOT HOSED!”
LOL, that was an awful call and I’m glad Chipper called him out on it. What he said about Davidson was hilarious.
Still, it didn’t stop us, and now Bobby is just mere steps (out of the dugout) away from being baseball’s all-time best manager (that’s the criteria right??).
By Jim
May 7, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
Swapping Francouer and Andruw in the 4/6 slots might make some sense, at least for the time being. Moving McCann into the 4th spot and batting Francouer and Andruw together in the next two slots does not make sense.
1) The current arrangement is L- R - SW - R - L - R - L/R - L/R - P, if McCann is moved down, you have 2 free-swinging righthanded hitters in a row and makes the job of the opposing manager much easier when ordering his bullpen.
2) Both Francouer and Andruw can be pitched to and are free swingers (not as much as last year for Frenchy, but its not the same as having a more disciplined hitter in the lower half of the lineup.) McCann bitting 5th protects both Andruw and Frenchy more than having the two of them bat in order.
By fastasballs
May 7, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
On the Braves site they Oscar down as the starter for tomorrow night.
I think if you get six out of James it will be good. He, like Davies, tends to rack up the pitches early. Davies cut that down yesterday & was around for the 7th. Let’s hope James can do the same. The Pads have a lot of agressive hitters so maybe James can go deeper than the 5th.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this
If you are impressed by the following numbers for a 3B, I don’t know what to say: 2005: .305, .359, .435. 2006: .263, .326, .469.
Of course, you oversimplify and misunderstand. We have a HOF third baseman. I don’t want him to play third. He was a helluva backup though - who would you rather have out of this group: Betemit, Orr, Woodward, Harris? The answer is obvious. I did not say I wanted him as a third baseman but I wanted to keep him as a utility infielder. AND before you tell me that he was going to make too much money so it was a good move please tell me how much money Woodward is making to be a glorified waste of roster space.
It’s funny though that you should downplay Betemit’s numbers like that because here are Druw’s CAREER numbers:
Runners on: .261, .351, .471
RISP: .255, .361, .446
RISP/2 outs: .223, .361, .398
Bases loaded: .277, .301, .413
Those numbers in key situations of the guy you keep heaping praise on are not much better than Betemit’s overall numbers. I don’t think betemit is 1/4th the ballplayer Andruw is but if you are going to pooh pooh the stats of Betemit as a utility infielder maybe you need to take a harder look at Andruw’s stats.
Of course, with the bases empty, Andruw hits like this: .271, .339, .536. He has 50 more home runs in his career with the bases empty as opposed to runners on in almost the same number of at bats.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this
Lew, my bad with the Tampa thing. Just being an idiot.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
Dave, Grow up. Get off the “mob” bandwagon and get back on the turnip truck.
Lots of players hit bad pitching. Lots of players knock in RBI’s in blowouts. To presume that Andruw is unique in that situation is absurd.
In 2005, Braves fans were riding the wave he provided with Chipper down.
I don’t know why you knock his OBP. The guy is drawing walks. Despite his AVG, he’s got a higher OBP than Francouer.
And finally, there are LOTS of players making $13 to $14 million that “aren’t” generating the results to merit that salary. That was a hometown discount there. The free marketplace is driving these types of HR hitter’s salaries even higher than that.
Andruw will be gone next season. But I’m sorry that you couldn’t see the forest from the trees with this guy. He’ll be in the Hall, and you were to critical to enjoy his time here.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 7, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
The Last 13 games the Mets play are against the Marlins and Nats. This may prove pivotal. Braves better do their best to get a good lead in the division. The Mets if they don’t those last 13 games may prove to be the difference…….We’ll see
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
NCZ: When are you gonna realize that we could care less about the Mets. We never have. They are no one’s concern. They won in a fluky down year in the NL and MLB overall and still lost to an 83 win team in the NLCS. We will do what we have to do and we will win the division by taking care of our business, like beating you 4-2. When the Braves take care of their business, the rest will take care of itself. We will look up on the first day of football, and you guys will be 5 to 10 games out. Count on that, son.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Willy Wally,
Betemit is a good backup, but the fact that he’s arbitration eligible isn’t irrelevant.
ESPN.com has Woodward’s salary at $850,000 in 2007. I wouldn’t be surprised if Betemit got at least close to $1 million in arbitration next season.
And in hindsight we can see that Aybar isn’t playing, but Aybar looked like a dependable Betemit-type backup when the trade was made.
We need to take all this into account. Yes, so far we’ve basically got little to nothing for Betemit but it was far from a stupid move.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
Jim,
Good blog about the batting order with Frenchy and AJ switching.
I don’t think there is a lose/lose whether it’s McCann or Frenchy in the 4 spot though.
The arguement for McCann at #4.
He’ll better protect Chipper at #3 than either Frenchy or Andruw.
He’s a better situational hitter than Frenchy or Andruw (the #4 spot is a situational spot of the lineup).
He’s a flat out better hitter (better average, fewer strikeouts, much harder out for a pitcher), and I’d like him to get as many at bats over the course of the season as possible.
The biggest arguement against McCann at #4 is that he needs his off days. And that throws off the consistent roles that players tend to prefer. Again, good comment about the Lefty Righty thing. And both Frenchy and Andruw will have more power numbers by seasons end (conventional wisdom at the #4 spot).
I’d personally get my best bat to protect Chipper in the #4 (he’s walking too much if there is such a thing).
By ernesto
May 7, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this
I forgot the stat they threw out yesterday or Sat. night about the amount of runners left stranded by ‘Druw during this bad stretch - it was depressing.
Moving him down at least for awhile is a fine idea, no matter what you think of his current approach at the plate.
By michael of b'ham
May 7, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this
ANYONE HERE EVER HEARD OF METAL ELVIS? If ya like Elvis but want a little more edge to it….this is your band.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 7, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
Sure you don’t care what the Mets are doing willy wally……wink wink
By Dave
May 7, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
PLEASE tell me what Andruw has done?? He puts up garbage numbers. ANd he aint gonna get $13-$14, more like $17-$20 and has hasn’t done S—- to WIN big games. I agree he can carry a team, but he has only done that ONCE. I don’t care about meanigless stats like OBP. The MOST important stat in baseball is what you do when the game means something…bottom line. How many times do you drive in people when it counts, when the game is on the line.
What you misunderstand is that I don’t like him or think he sucks. I do not. He is the best defensive player, maybe all-time. He drives in runs, he stays healthy….he has an incredibly quick bat. And your point about there are so many other players not worth their value…I agree…that doesn’t justify paying him $20 mil. He may end up in the HOF, I give you that but it will be a lifetime achievement for his durability and fielding and stats, not for WS rings, or all star games or cluth hitting. What frustrates me the most is he HAS so much talent and I do enjoy watching him but this is about winning championships…. he hasn’t improved his hitting in 6 years other than he hits more mistakes out of the park.
I am not joining the mob…do you put JS in that mob? I merely state what I see and know, that Andruw is NOT a clutch player and is not worth 20 mil. This is about a business decision.
By Lee
May 7, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this
Mets fans should have to pay a fee to make a post on this blog. I suppose any baseball conversations in New York only surround the Yankeees. Even with the Yankees record at present time they get more recognition than the Mets.
By Lew
May 7, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this
Mosquitoes are here. Whining and droning. On and On and On and On.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 7, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
“That ol’ gym coach, and her program, are winners, plain and simple.” -scribe
now, scribe, calling a woman an ol’ gym coach is not likely to attract that woman to this blog. the spokesperson for this blog to coach yoc must be someone who is good with the women and knows what to say. should it be grinch or sja? this journalist is voting for grinch who has already demonstrated ability and knows how to charm the school marm. remember reunion with ol’ professor made possible by this journalist.
now. if this blog is looking for an ol’ gym coach, please remember we already have coach blogging here.
still, the addition of another female blogger would be most welcome as the regulars come around infrequently now. where are cl, flbravesgirl, april, and choppinmama? how about carroll from fsu? more femininity is needed on this blog! sja cannot bear the burden alone. as ron roberts would say, “coach yoc come on down!”!!
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
Good Morning folks (or afternoon if your in the ATL). I haven’t had a chance to catch up with all the posts yet, but I gotta say this. Great Series this weekend. Some shady calls on the plays and plate, but in the end we got the W. Lowe was getting some pitches Hudson wasn’t getting, which didn’t help much. And yesterday, well, whatever. We got the W by butchering a bullpen. We need to work on our pre-2-out RBI’s. It’d be nice to see us take full advantage of all 3 outs instead of just the last one.
Davies was very promising. I didn’t get to see the whole blog but I did see a DonC post that was somewhat favorable of Davies. That’s how much better he was yesterday. 6 innings of 2 run ball is good stuff. Too bad he couldn’t finish off that last inning without giving up a HR.
Harris is doing really well. Much better than I would have thought. Maybe this is our lighening in a bottle guy this year.
Any word on who is pitching in Redman’s spot? If the guy can go 5 innings allowing 4 runs or less, it will be an improvement. I’d like to see what Lerew could do. I’ve seen what Barry can do and it isn’t impressive in the least. He was average at AAA this season, he’ll be shelled at this level like last season. Lerew is allowing a lot of baserunners, but he has more promise than Barry.
GO BRAVES
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Ted Williams should be removed from the HOF (without any championships).
And Willie Mays too. He hit .239 AVG/ .308 OBP/ .282 SLG in his 20 World Series games. Let’s get him out of the Hall, too.
By Efrim
May 7, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this
Tennesee Paul,
I would also like to see what Lerew could do at the major league level. He is a better bet than Barry. He has a great sinking fastball. Let’s start Lerew can do, and if he doesn’t pitch well, than we can throw Oscar in there.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
I would have been considering sitting Davies after six solid innings…
Nice caveat. I’m sure Cox was considering sitting Davies, but looked at who was up in the 7th, and then the low pitch count, and then possible pinch hitters and said, it’s worth a shot to send a guy who’s been throwing well up against the worst hitter the oppenent has. Davies did a find job yesterday. He’s been pretty solid. For starters, he didn’t immediately give up the lead yesterday. He got a 1 run lead and set down the Dodgers in order the next inning. That was a positive sign. If he can keep pitching like this we’ll be just fine.
By MBATL
May 7, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
I’m sure a quite a few pitchers have won games on 1 pitch - but I wonder how many times a pitcher has won a game with 1 pitch and without retiring a batter, and with their only pitch an intentional ball (pitchout) like Paronto did yesterday. That might have been the easiest win in the history of baseball! (or at least tied for it)
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
Andruw is only 9 hits away from Kelly Johnson; that’s about a good week or even 1/2 week from being right up there with him.
Payne, this would assume that KJ doesn’t hit for a week. If KJ continues to hit at his normal pace, Andruw is going to have really catch fire to catch up with him in hit count in a matter of 3 or 4 games (1/2 a week). Basically, AJ would have to go 4 for 4 for 3 or 4 straight games to make it up in that amount of time. AJ will come around but it will take more time than suggested.
By rammerjammer
May 7, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
While watching Salty catch and throw yesterday, I remembered that McCann’s five errors lead all catchers and he’s 4 of 17 in throwing out runners.
By Dave
May 7, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I hope you aren’t a lawyer. You take ONE of the reasons I brought up. PLEASE tell me you aren’t comparing Ted Williams to Andruw Jones. Ted Williams batted .400 drove in ALOT of meaningful runs, won the triple crown TWICE. You pick one of the reasons out and try to make your point. NICE.
PLEASE please look at what players do when it COUNTS. Andruw is a great player, just not worth anywhere close to 20 million. Frenchy is better then him right now and he’s 7 years younger. A much better clutch player.
You bring up Willie Mays and his performance in WS, but what about throughout the yera that got them to the 20 WS? How many has Andruw led us to with his high % w RISP?
By Richard Cory
May 7, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
Dave—Andrew, may be the best defensive cf of all time?? You’re showing your age.:] Us old hands, remember a guy named Mays, that was better. I do agree that Andrew is overated. I have always felt that way. I never liked the smiling, after striking out, and he is the only player that I can recall Bobby ever having to come down on publicly. I believe the money can be better spent next year, when he is gone. He’s good—just not as good as some make him out to be—IMO.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul and Efrim,
Looks like Villarreal is going to get the start tomorrow. I’m excited to see it.
His K rate is very high right now and his K/BB ratio is very impressive.
He’s given up a lot of hits but 9 of the 16 have been singles, which could just mean hitters are getting lucky and finding holes. He’s getting over a groundball an inning.
I’m looking forward to see Villarreal get an opportunity.
By Glass Half Full
May 7, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
This has nothing to do with Andruw’s current production or lack of it, but I’d let him go after this season if I was calling the shots. $20 mill is simply too much for a team on a tight budget and it’s not like he’s the only power threat on the team. Francouer, McCann, Johnson, & Thorman will continue to develop. There are some OFs in the minors who can fill the gap. Let him go. $20 mill buys a lot of help.
By ssiscribe
May 7, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
Esteemed Journalist: I did not mean to disrespect the esteemed coach Yoc. She’s an ol’ gym coach like there’s a certain ol’ ball coach over in Columbia. Neither one of them are well-liked by most of the free world, but both of them win.
A little friendly comparison, that’s all. Tricks of the trade.
And who will start tomorrow night. Villarreal, as some sites report? Lerew? We shall see.
—30—
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Andruw’s post season numbers look pretty impressive. His career “clutch” stats are pretty good (late and close, RISP, 2 out and RISP, tie game).
And I think the World Series would qualify as “counting” and Willie Mays doesn’t look good at all in WS games.
But it’s ridiculous to take away too much credit because of what a player does in any 20 or 30 game stretch.
Is Andruw Jones a Ruth, Aaron, Mays, Mantle, Williams-type? No way. But he’s a great player and a very probable HOFer.
I do agree it may be wise for the Braves to let him walk because he will want so much money. But he’s far from an unproductive player, even when it counts.
By JasonInMaine
May 7, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I do have to ask:
Who is seen as the better defensive catcher, Salty or B-Mac? I know pitchers rave about B-Mac’s ability to call a game, but it does appear that Salty is better defensively. What do the people who matter think?
Regards,
Jason
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
One other thing I forgot to mention: This weekend we went up against, what was supposed to be, the replacement of power. Speed. The Dodger have no sluggers so they went out and got Pierre and Furcal to top the order. Now a single is as good as a double, as goes the verbal defense from Dodger fans about lack of power. In this series The Braves stole 2 bases for a 100% success rate. Pierre and Furcal were picked off twice and caught stealing three times for a 0% success rate. Probably doesn’t mean too much in the long run, but it sure feels good to out perform the oppenent at their own game.
By mr baseball
May 7, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
Shaun: Beyond the fact that you’re fixated on numbers, you’re fixated on the WRONG numbers, and you’ve bought in to the same BS that stat geeks accept as gospel. The idea that RBIs don’t mean much but OBP & OPS are the holy grail of production is unadulterated crap.
The role for a player in the middle of the lineup is to drive in runs, not get on base, or as you statmongers like to say, avoid outs. RBIs is a perfectly valid method of comparing guys hitting in the middle of the order from different teams. Obviously, the cleanup hitters for the Yankees and Red Sox are going to get more RBI opportunities than the No. 4 hitters in Kansas City and Washington, but for most teams, the difference in RBI chances is not that great.
Francouer drove in over 100 runs last year because he hit over .300 w/RISP. The fact that he has driven in so many runs with 2 outs has much more to do with how well he’s produced in those situations, not who he’s hitting behind. Speaking of which, how many RBIs has he lost hitting behind speedsters AJones and McCann.
He’s hit well over .300 w/RISP, which has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with who is hitting in front of him. If he was driving in runs at a comparable clip and hitting .225 w/RISP you might have a point, but he isn’t and you don’t.
Andrew is batting a robust .200 in that category. Yeah, Andruw’s OBP is pretty good. Why that is should be obvious to anybody who watches the games and pays attention to something other than numbers. Pitchers are throwing him a steady diet of breaking balls outside. Unless they make a mistake and give him something he can drive, he either waves at a few pitches or lays off when they’re too far out of the strike zone and takes a walk. He looks awful at the plate, which is reflected in his numbers with men on base. But his OBP is pretty good, so statheads think he’s doing OK.
You’re off base on your dismissals of Lee and Gonzalez as well. The Astros & Padres are not exactly the powerhouse offenses of the NL, so how is it those 2 guys are driving in runs at such a productive rate? You really think it’s because they’re getting more opportunities than Andruw, Delgado, Howard, etc.? It’s because when they get the chance to drive in runs, they’re doing so.
Gonzalez is hitting .500 w/RISP. No way he can keep that up, but that number matters a hell of a lot more than OBP or OPS. Andruw has had 20 percent more ABs w/RISP than Gonzalez. He has 40 percent fewer RBIs overall. You can repeat the OBP/OPS mantra ‘til you’re blue in the face, but when it comes down to it, if you don’t hit when it matters, not much else really means anything.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
Richard Cory,
I remember Bobby taking him out of a game early in his career.
I suggest maybe you look at his overall out rate instead of his facial expressions after he makes one type of out.
Andruw hits for a lot of power for a CF, his out rate is very good for a CF, his defense was as good as anyone’s in his prime and he’s still a good defensive CF.
I think Andruw is overrated by many as far as his defense the last couple of years but is underrated by many in terms of career offensive production.
By Glass Half Full
May 7, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this
COMING THIS SUMMER: BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN 2. STARRING ROGER CLEMENS AND ANDY PETITTE! These 2 pals have always enjoyed a special relationship despite each having a wife and children. Each year they are drawn back to the ballpark and find themselves embracing the love that dare not speak its name.
RATED NC-17 for graphic scenes of full frontal nudity, passionate anal intercourse and extreme close-ups of f****** being administered.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this
mr baseball,
The fact is OBP/out-avoiding correlates with runs better than pretty much any other rate or percentage stat. You can look it up. Facts are facts.
You build you offense around “RBI guys”, you could get burned; you could end up with guys with a ton of power that make a ton of outs in between a few homers. You build your team around guys who avoid outs and hit the ball very hard and very far when they make contact, you’ll score lots of runs.
Most guys who can hit, can hit. Given enough plate appearances, guys who can hit are going to hit in key situations and guys who can’t hit aren’t going to hit in key situations.
I don’t think it’s coincidence that the best hitters in late and close games in 2006 were also the best overall hitters.
By Lew
May 7, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this
I got to go with Mr. Baseball on this one Shaun. Andruw is not paid to walk, he’s paid to be a boomer and an RBI guy. Why do you think he gets to play everyday, even when he’s slumping? It certainly isn’t because of his OBP, it’s because he could bust out at any time, hit two tape measure shots in any given game and drive in 5 or 6 runs-not because he has a good eye and MIGHT get a walk. He’s just never going to be a Chipper-type hitter, though they both have good power. I just want Andruw to improve his mechanics and start hitting again. I couldn’t care less if he gets another base on balls, I just don’t want to see him tear his Achilles’ tendon, or kill someone with his backswing.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
So I think I’m siding with Payne on this one. Hard to fathom. But check out AJ’s Close and Late over the last three seasons:
AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO AVG SLG OBP
249 49 76 14 2 19 52 35 60 .305 .606 .401
That’s an OPS in late and close over the last 3 seasons (‘04 - ‘06) of 1.007. It’s the second best overall situational split during that time span. I think the reason it isn’t noticed as much is because, his best over all situational split is None On 1 or 2 out. He has a 1.011 OPS in that situation with almost twice as many at bats. His HR per plate appearance and AB are better in this situation as well. But regardless, he’s productive with runners on. Not so far this season, but, and this is where I’ll differ from Payne, AJ is a streaky hitter. One of the streakiest in the league. He’s in his typical funk right now. He’ll get out of it and go on a tear. He can make his seasonal averages look good. But when you dig into them, their isn’t a noticable consistancy to his numbers so it’s easy to pick on him during his slumps.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
David,
Sorry for being so harsh on you when we basically agree in regards to Andruw’s future value to this team (no way he will get that % of our team’s budget).
We both agree that he has contributed substantial run production and defense. We both agree that his approach to the plate has flaws.
But I can’t agree that calling him or his stats “Garbage” is not a mob mentality (kick him while he’s down). He’s a potential HOF’er who has spent his most productive years in our hometown uniform.
And he has spent many of those years on a hometown discount. Does Glavine, JD Drew, Sheffield, or Javy mean anything to you? It is a big deal that he is in a Braves uniform this season.
Andruw, JS, TP, and Bobby (you and I) all are unhappy with his numbers thus far in 2007. However, NONE OF THEM would call those productive numbers garbage. Especially when we all recognize that he’ll put a string of games together. I’m calling you out on that one. And not letting up.
For the record, OBP is a very important stat. And one that has greatly contributed to the success of the Braves this season. Just not the type of stat you focus on from your #4 hitter.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
Andruw has had 20 percent more ABs w/RISP than Gonzalez. He has 40 percent fewer RBIs overall.
That’s in 2007. What about career? The sample size for the whole 2007 season is not sufficient to judge a player, much less the sample size for situational hitting.
That brings up something else to keep in mind: Usually the sample size of “clutch” plate appearances in a single season is never going to be enough to make definitive judgments on a player’s clutch abilities.
The most PA anyone got in late and close situations was 131 (Chase Utley). There’s no way you can make a definitive judgment about a player’s clutch abilities by 130 plate appearances; that’s maybe 1/7th of a complete season’s worth of plate appearances.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I hope AJ is in there because of his OBP and his power. Again, OBP isn’t just about taking walks and being patient—it’s about avoiding outs. Andruw has been a very good out-avoider and power hitter, especially for a CF, in his career.
By "Andy, I Wish I Could Quit You!"
May 7, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this
Did anyone else hear that because the dopey Yankee fans were screaming so loud yesterday, we all missed the best line of the season, when Rocket said over the microphone the line from Brokeback Mountain, “Andy, I wish I could quit you!”
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this
Tenn Paul
I’ve seen websites show Villareal (ESPN) and heard of websites posting Lerew (CBS Sportsline) as Tuesday’s starter.
Does it matter if his name isn’t Redman? LOL
Villareal is not pitching to his best as of late. He’s given up runs in 4 of his last 5 appearances (8.50+ ERA in that span). He’s averaging almost a walk an inning and has given up 2 HR’s in his last 7.1 innings (last 5 appearances).
That said, he’s not facing the Mets, Marlins, or Phillies. Maybe we can catch lightning in a bottle against San Diego if he can keep both his pitch count and balls in play low.
I’d be happy with either pitcher out there.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this
meansonny,
I hope the Braves focus on OBP for all hitters. OBP is success and failure; making and out and not making an out.
By Richard Cory
May 7, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this
Ok folks-please allow me, to present something to ponder. I address, Lew, TennPaul, Krath, MBATL and all of the ‘old heads’ of the blog. We have a young stud prospect. [Salty] We, have an all-star catcher[B.Mac} We have a CF [AD], who is going to be gone after this year. We also, have some time. Let’s remember long ago, when another young catcher, was moved to CF. He was big and strong [like Salty] not graceful, like your typical CF. His name was Murphy, and he went on to play a respected cf, and added a little to our offense, with his bat. Could lightning strike twice, in the same place?? What say youse guys??
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
mr baseball has a valid point. You can’t drive in runs by simply reaching base via walk (ie, simply avoiding the out doesn’t make a run cross the plate). That only works when you are up with the bases loaded and those situations aren’t as common.
It’s good to have a high OBP, but it isn’t necessary. You’d like your guy to get out as little as possible, but in this situation, scoring the run is the most important thing. You want a guy with a high average with runners in scoring position because a ball hit in play has a higher probability of plating the run. The RBI’s will reflect the batters successful opportunities as weighted by the strength of his teams offense. A high RBI total will more than likely reflect a high average with runners in scoring position.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I’m not trying to be a wiseguy or anything, but when you watch Andruw everyday, do you not have alot of moments where you want to bash your television in or at least let out a big frustrated scream at Andruw.
If you watch all those games, you would have to have plenty of moments like that. That does not mean he is not a great player - and I don’t think any intelligent fans on here are trying to say that he is not a great player. BUT he does provide some absolutely infuriating moments.
When you yourself personally watch the games this year, how do you feel watching that dopey drop to a knee twisting and contorting swing that makes him look like Bugs Bunny twisting and turning all over himself trying to hit a curveball?
Step away from the stats and tell us how you really feel as a fan when you watch someone as talented as AJ look that bad for seemingly no reason other than stubbornness.
Does it mean anything to you that guys like TP are at their wits end watching that go on and on and on despite all the instruction and guidance?
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
Exactly. Sure, criticize AJ if he’s not getting the job done. But some folks are making it seem like AJ’s a lost cause this season. I’d be way more shocked if AJ’s numbers look similar to what they look like now rather than what they looked like at the end of the last couple of seasons.
And also, your last post points out a point I’ve been trying to make—situational stats are probably going to look more and more similar to overall stats the more plate appearances in that situation.
Being a major leaguer already is full of pressure so I doubt many players are going to feel significantly more pressure in clutch plate appearances. Major leaguers have already been through the filter of high school baseball, many have been through college baseball, pretty much all have been through the minors. All plate appearances are clutch at the major league level, so given a lot of plate appearances a hitter’s clutch stats are going to look a lot like his overall stats.
By Willy Wally
May 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this
Salty in CF? Uh, no. Richard Cory, you’re a good blogger but uh, no. That’s crazy. Murph was a good athlete. Salty is as well otherwise he would not be in the MLB. BUT centerfield caliber athlete he is not.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Cory: I don’t think we’ll put Salty in CF. He has run way better than I was expecting, but I don’t see him in CF. I can easily see him in LF. If/when AJ leaves, we will need another big bat. Salty is that big bat and Salty will be considerably cheaper than any outside option. Moving him to LF is about the only way he’ll get to be at the MLB level in a Braves uniform. I don’t think it will be that difficult of a transition for him. His strong arm would be an asset as well. He won’t be as graceful as Langerhans, but he shouldn’t be as awkward as “Skates” Smith was either. He could be OK defensively and make up for the rest with his bat.
But I don’t think they will move him until he starts hitting so much they just have to. Otherwise, they keep him as a catcher in case any can’t-refuse trade comes along. But I’d imagine that trade would have to be down right incredible.
By rammerjammer
May 7, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Salty just might be too good to trade.
I’d say French and Mac qualify as “special” players…kids who just belonged from the get-go. They weren’t intimidated and they went to work. Salty would seem to fit that description.
One wonders if the wheels are turning upstairs regarding some position changes to come next year (Mac, 1B; Thor, LF) to get Salty in the game.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I agree with the importance of OBP and OPS. But again, OBP doesn’t automatically drive runs in.
I’m sure the best RBI guys are those with better SLG and good OBP ahead of them. Today, I’d put McCann or Frenchy at the #4 to see how that plays out. I’d like Chipper to see better pitches to get his RBI production up with better protection behind him.
By David O'Brien
May 7, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this
Shaun, you write: “I don’t think it’s coincidence that the best hitters in late and close games in 2006 were also the best overall hitters.”
Interesting. So it’s NOT coincidence, in your view, that the best hitters in late and close situations were also the best overall hitters.
But I’m guessing you think it IS coincidence that Andruw’s RISP average is so consistently way below the likes of Pujols, Bonds, Derrek Lee, etc.?
Last season the NL leaders in average with RISP were:
All hit far better with RISP than without, except Sanchez, who hit for huge average in any situation.
Andruw hit .276 (48-for-174) with RISP, which was far better than he had in recent seasons. Again, notice the higher number of opportunities he had than others. How many RBIs were there if he hits, say, .300 with RISP? Or .320?
In 2005, the MVP candidates were Pujols, D. Lee and Andruw. Pujols hit .329 (46-for-140) with RISP, Lee hit .331 (41-for-124), and Andruw hit .207 (38-for-184), fourth-lowest in the NL, just ahead of Hee-Seop Choi (.203).
Andruw led the NL with 128 RBIs that season. Noice how many more ABs he had with RISP than Lee or Pujols (and almost everyone else in baseball). How many RBIs does Andruw have in 2005 if he hits just .250 with RISP, much less if he hits .300? He could have had 160, easily.
Late-and-close isn’t coincidence, but RISP average isn’t at least as important to you? Explain, please.
By MBATL
May 7, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
I don’t think most of us have a problem with AJ’s career as a cleanup hitter. The problem is his current slump, and the appearance (from watching him, and from TP’s comments) that he refuses to work on his approach.
Maybe that’s a conscious thing - he just refuses to focus on making contact - or maybe it’s just a mechanical flaw that he needs to work through. Shaun, I appreciate your view of the game, but if you watch him, how can you deny that he’s taking a terrible approach right now?
Seems to me that the “falling to one knee” swing is a relatively new thing - beginning middle of last year. He hit 50+ HR in ‘05 without that exaggerated swing, didn’t he (I’m not sure… it’s an honest question)? His average dropped in the 2nd half last year, and I think it coincided with the Big Ridiculous Swing.
Personally, I don’t see much advantage in dropping him down in the lineup. It might get McCann or Francoeur another AB or 2 per week, but won’t really have much impact. It would be just as painful watching him overswing with McCann and Francoeur on base as with Edgar and CJ.
It might motivate AJ to be a little more willing to put the ball in play with RISP, rather than the all-or-nothing approach he’s taking now; or it might deflate his ego and lead to even bigger problems (he got his feelers hurt when he learned he was placed on waivers last year). I just don’t know his psyche well enough to make that call.
I’m pretty confident that he will come around (and I don’t mean just taking a lot of walks). He always has before. But it’s damn frustrating watching him right now.
By NO CHOP ZONE
May 7, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
Glass half full will be banished forever with that kind of language. DOB will not put up with it…..You’ll see. Oh wait, you might get a slap on the wrist if you’re a braves fan.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
AJ’s falling over cost him at least one hit during this series. He could have beat out the relay but he spent to much time picking himself up off the ground. That crap is going cause him to hit into more DP than he should be hitting into. When he came up as a kid, he could hit for average and power and he did so with a wide stance that didn’t make him fall over. Just wich the guy would get back to that. If he’d shoot for all fields he probably would fall over as much either. And his numbers would certainly be better.
I watched the LA broadcast over this weekend. They block out the Braves broadcast here when they two teams play. They had a few interesting things to say.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
The long-term question about what to do with Salty can wait for now. The near-term decision is to keep him on the roster through the Red Sox series and use both Salty and McCann as catchers/DH.
I was hoping for the same thing. We could definately use him as our DH when we are on the road during interleague play… Or it would probably be better to use him as our catcher and DH McCann. Either way, he definately gives us that extra bat against the 9-hitter league…
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
All I’m saying is when runners are in scoring position, when no one is on base, whenever, I want a guy who can hit at the plate.
Let’s go back to Willie Mays. If it’s 1963 and I can somehow get any CF I want going into a World Series, I’d still pick Mays, even though he wasn’t impressive in World Series. I wouldn’t judge him only on his World Series plate appearances but his overall plate appearances. I wouldn’t assume that he’s a bad WS hitter just because he hadn’t hit well in 17 WS games. In my opinion, that would be a ridiculous assumption.
I think it’s equally ridiculous to assume Jeff Francouer is a good or bad clutch hitter based on his 244 PA in close and late situations or his 168 PA with 2 outs and RISP. Those aren’t many plate apperances to make any judgments.
For the most part, I don’t believe there are certain guys who hit well with runners in scoring position. I think the stats back me up and human intuition backs me up.
If you are good enough to make it through the filter of the minors as a good hitter and are allowed to bat in the majors in key situations, you are probably good enough to hit in the clutch. If you don’t seem to be hitting in the clutch, it’s probably because you haven’t had enough opportunities for your numbers to look like they do in non-clutch situations.
Willy Wally,
When I see Andruw make an out, I just think that’s one of the times he’s going to make an out this season. He’ll still contribute just as much in 2007 as he did in ‘06 and ‘05, most likely. It frustrates me when any Brave makes an out.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
O’Brien,
I was wrong to look at just 2006. I think looking at situational stats for a single season is never going to be very telling because of the small sample of plate appearances involved.
I do think the odds are better for great hitters to hit well in the clutch in a single season but in a small sample, anything can happen.
Here are Andruw’s numbers with RISP: .255 AVG/ .362 OBP/ .446 SLG in 2082 PA.
His career numbers: .266 AVG/ .345 OBP/ .504 SLG
Not really a huge difference. I would rely on overall stats over clutch stats if I need one guy to take an important stroll to the plate. To take it a step farther, I’d take a guy with significantly better overall stats and significantly worse clutch stats in a key situation.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
HA! A high RBI total will more than likely reflect a high average with runners in scoring position
How ironic. When speaking of AJ most typical situations go out the window I suspect. But I’d blame it on his ever changing and odd batting approach. At least I had the qualifier “more than likely” in the statement.
AJ hit .205 with RISP in 2005. That’s horrid. So I’d like to amend my statement from above to apply to AJ.
A high RBI more than likely reflect a high average in close and late situations.
In 2005 AJ hit .279 in those situations with a 1.043 OPS. He did get hot for a stretch there in 2005. I think this stat reflects it more than his overall attempts when guys were actually on base. Albeit, Close and Late occured 98 times compared to 230 RISP opportunities.
Over the last 3 years AJ has hit .236/.363/.433 with RISP. Not too impressive. Well below his career averages. And that’s over 530 AB in the situation. Probably because he’s attempting to pull the ball out of the park every single time that situation comes up.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Effrim wrote: And James hasn’t looked good all season…
I disagree Effrim. I think he has looked very good in a few outings this year. I mean his last one (which was against Philly) was a solid outing in my book. Nearly 6 shutout innings until he hung one to last years MVP and paid the price for it. Sure he hasn’t made it past the 6th inning all year, but lets face it, right now Chuck James is a quality #3 starter. He doesn’t have the overpowering stuff to get people out when he has to, and it runs up his pitch count. That is what he is right now, and probably will be for the rest of his career. (A quality #3 starter who will be at 100 pitches by the 6th inning). So far, in 4 of his 6 starts this season he’s gone at least 5 innings with 3ER’s or less allowed. To me, that doesn’t warrant a response of “he hasn’t looked good all season.”
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this
Basically, my argument boils down to the fact that the Braves are 4-2 when Chucky starts. For a #3 starter to be giving your team a great shot at a win nearly 70% of the time is about as much as you could ask for isn’t it?
By Dave
May 7, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
DB thanks for the stats. Great stuff.
I never said Andruw isn’t a great player, just overrated…in terms of what he deserves in salary. As a $12-$15mil player, I would take him all day, as a $17-$20 mil…no way, and if they don’t trade him they get nothing for him next year.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this
Rammerjammer,
I’m with you. McCann at first base everyday appears to be the best option for the Braves (even before Salty’s rise to the Bigs). Doesn’t mean that it will be seriously considered. But I hate to see his bat out of the lineup (and I fear the next nagging/career changing injury from behind the plate)
After seeing Willie Harris in the OF, I definitely agree that it’s nice to see a player who can shag flyballs in the gap and who can keep runners from advancing (this is as big a friend to pitchers as the consequential double-play). Salty shouldn’t be an OF’er unless he can offer that type of defense.
By ncscoots
May 7, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
I think it’s equally ridiculous to assume Jeff Francouer is a good or bad clutch hitter based on…
There is no assumption to the fact that he has been clutch in that number of AB. It’s all in how you define it, I guess. If you are saying it’s ridiculous to assume that someone will CONTINUE to be a clutch hitter, on-base machine, home-run hitter, whatever, I might buy that (past may or may not be prologue), but the other is just an attempt at revisionist history.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
I think it’s worth noting that AJ has only 530 AB’s with runners in scoring position, which is still a much lower sample obviously than his career AB’s.
This is the problem with situational stats and stats in general. Obviously the more PA’s the better. But obviously a hitter is never going to have as many situational PA’s as overall PA’s.
Also, not only are clutch situations a smaller sample but many are going to come against better pitchers.
This is one of the obvious (there’s that word again) limitations with statistics.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
I think it’s equally ridiculous to assume Jeff Francouer is a good or bad clutch hitter based on his 244 PA in close and late situations or his 168 PA with 2 outs and RISP.
No, I’d judge Francoeur on his consistancy in that situation since, pretty much his birth. Every level of play in every sport he’s played in he has succeeded more often than not in situations of late and close and/or RISP. Even last year when his seasonal averages sent the stat heads, Dayn Perry included, into a dizzy, Franoeur was far and above the best man to have in clutch situations. I recall at one point last year you attempted to make the case that Langerhans would be a better option than Francoeur. You wisely retracted it once you look more closely at Langerhans, but you still didn’t believe in Francoeur.
What I find ridiculous is, you can see those numbers and still not respect how much better Francoeur is in those situations.
Late & Close to date: .313/.351/.613 in 174 TPA
RISP to date: .330/.386/554 in 311 TPA
He is much more focused and successful when in these situations. I believe I have these numbers correct. I’m not using Baseball-Reference because I’ve found it to be unreliable concerning splits.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
Don,
Good comments on Chuck James. I agree with most of your points.
You’d probably agree with me that, “who wouldn’t want to have a healthy Mike Hampton as your 3rd best starter?”.
Chuck is a much more attractive pitching candidate if he wasn’t relied to be the 3rd best starter (more consistency being the key difference).
And if we had the bullpen last year, I doubt we would be winning a lot of those shorter outings. Credit the bullpen some to that 70% winning ratio.
By Lee
May 7, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Dave - Andruw has already said in so many words he would reject a trade this year to another team. He wants to remain a Brave for at least the remainer of this season. With Atlanta battling for the Division Crown this year, it is very unlikely they would even consider trading him in the first place.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
One more thing: looking at situational hitting is a lot like looking at post-season baseball. If 2006 post-season was played 100 times somehow (without the players getting tired, etc.) the Cardinals probably wouldn’t have won the World Series in 20 of those times. Or if the Cards played the Tigers in a 10-game series or something ridiculous, the Tigers probably win.
Sample size is such an important concept when dealing with stats, even baseball stats. It’s why ARod’s start isn’t as unusual as it seems and why we shouldn’t worry about AJ at this point.
By DonCoburleone
May 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
Hey did anyone see that ESPN2 is going to be airing this years MLB draft? The first round is the only for sure thing. Teams get 10 minutes to make their pick, and with some 50 first-round picks you do the math; that’s alot of exposure… It’s about time baseball does this. I swear, MLB is always the last sport to jump in on a good idea.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
Payne: it’s worth noting that AJ has only 530 AB’s with runners in scoring position, which is still a much lower sample obviously than his career AB’s.
It’s worth noting that 530 AB is equivalent to a single seasons worth of AB. So the prudent thing would be to compare this to single season averages, and he is falling far short of his single season averages. He is under performing in these situations.
On top of that, even though I distrust Baseball Reference, it lists AJ as having 1339 PA in Late and Close and still producing lower than career averages. Same thing goes for 2 out RISP situations with over 980 PA.
How large of a sample size do you need? Are you always going to brush it under the rug because his over all numbers come from a larger sample size than a sub set of those numbers? I would think, once you have a single season’s worth of a sample size, you could learn something from it. But you seem to ignore them completely at all costs.
By meansonny
May 7, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Shaun,
You have to be careful. It’s a sin to love stats, but to pick and choose the one’s that you want to get in bed with.
That’s what discourages most baseball fans from a “statistician” fan. When they discriminate and disect the arguements that they don’t want to support, despite the Occum’s Razor approach which states the easiest answer is usually the right one.
I’m a fan of “unique” or “wow” stats. But I try not to dig up stats to support an arguement by ignoring or dismissing the one’s which provide a counter. That’s flat out dishonest to yourself and to baseball.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
That’s still only 174 TPA late and close and 311 TPA with RISP. That’s still not enough to make definitive judgments about Francouer’s clutch-hitting abilities.
And I would guess that almost every major league player hit very well in clutch (and every other) situation in high school, etc. I would guess many were good enough to succeed in clutch (and other) situations in other sports.
ncscoots,
Good point. Francouer has been a good clutch hitter but does that mean there is something within him that makes him a good clutch performer. I think the something in him that makes him a good clutch performer is what is going to make him a good overall performer.
By TennesseePaul
May 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
It’s why ARod’s start isn’t as unusual as it seems
Even considering A-Rod’s start, it’s not normal Payne. In 140 years of baseball starts, A-Rod and Pujols are the only ones to do what they’ve done. That’s a massive sample size spanning over a centry and only 2 have obtained it. When the seasons over, everything will average out, but to discount the start simply because it is a start is un-justified. No one is saying it will last for ever, but the feat itself is worthy of recognition.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
The greater the sample the better. 500 is not as good as 2000 but it’s better than 150.
By ncscoots
May 7, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I’m a guy who has made his living with data and statistics for more years than you’ve probably been around (at least, longer than you’ve been married, LOL, and congrats). You cling to sample size as a mantra, but confidence does not increase proportionally with sample size, but rather incrementally. Lower (but still valid) sample sizes do not invalidate conclusions drawn from data, nor are larger sample sizes guaranteed to be a closer approximation of “truth”.
I’m afraid I don’t need to know the size of the standard deviation in Andruw’s current offensive bell curve to know that his mechanics are outa whack something god-awful.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
I’m not saying it’s not amazing. But I’m saying ARod has had 1 1/2 month stretches similar to this before. It’s great and he should get credit for it, but it’s not as unusual as it seems.
Also, what are AJ’s stats in non-clutch situations over the past three seasons? If we are only looking at AJ’s clutch stats over the last three seasons, we should compare it to his non-clutch or overall stats only from the last 3 seasons.
By BIG DADDY
May 7, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Has anyone considered the possibility that Andruw may not be among the most intelligent players on the Braves’ squad? He appears to be playing this year with one intent, to try to put up gaudy power numbers (for that big contract) and to hell with what is good for the team. That does not sit well with this ole timer.
Oh, I agree with those who say he is at least one of the best two center fielders of all time but playing baseball is more than making dramatic catches.
Andruw’s best years are behind him and I look forward with a certain amount of pleasure, in being able to laugh at the fools who pay him $20 mil to play next year and for the five years following that.
He seems to care nothing for anything but hitting a home run each and every time he comes to the plate. Everyone in the park or in TV land knows that all you have to do is pitch him low and outside. He will screw himself into the ground trying to pull that pitch to left field.
Hence, my reference to his intellect in my opening sentence. Frankly I think he’s just dumb.
By ernesto
May 7, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Shaun - the Cards wouldn’t have won in 10? What do you base that on? The more I read your posts the more specious your arguments become.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
In baseball sample size is more important than perhaps other statistical endeavors. In baseball situations are going to change, so the larger the sample the better.
Which is another point about situational stats—they are situational. Maybe teams are learning more and putting in certain types of pitchers against AJ; pitchers he never hit well his whole career. Maybe Francouer just has a knack for hitting certain types of pitchers; the kind that most often come in in key situations.
Besides sample size, maybe an even more valid reason to pay more attention to overall stats over situational stats is the situational nature of situational stats.
You may say that’s even more of a reason to pay more attention to situational stats but I would disagree. Maybe AJ hasn’t been good against sinker/slider pitchers. You remove him for a pinch-hitter that seems to do well against sinker/slider pitchers. Does the pinch-hitter really have a better shot to do damage than AJ? What if the pitcher makes a mistake that AJ can kill and the other hitter can’t?
This is where baseball stats become most problematic, in my opinion, when dealing with situational stats.
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
ernesto,
You really believe the Cardinals were the best team in the ‘06 post-season? You really believe if we could somehow rewind the ‘06 post-season and play it again several times the Cardinals would win most of the time?
By Shaun
May 7, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
ncscoots and TennPaul,
Look at day/night or grass/turf splits. Most intelligent fans and baseball people will say they’re not really meaningful in almost all cases. A player is more likely to play like he does all the time rather than what he does on grass, even if the game is on grass. I would argue that other situational stats are similar.
By DAP
May 7, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
willy wally, was that 7:4somthing AM post directed at people like me? sounds like you should have stayed in bed a little longer!
im probably much more passionate about the game than you are, im just not fickle and irrational. and hey, if people want to write doom and gloom early in the game before they see end results, good for them! i dont care! i just get a kick out of reading it and then seeing how their tone changes when it turns out good.
what about the people who get on here everynight and talk about bobby leaving the pitcher in too long?
anyways, willy wally, i hope you ended up having a good day, since you were pretty grumpy this morning. maybe you got a nap or something…
By ernesto
May 7, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
I’m saying - Shaun the Stat guy - you’ve got no reason to say that other than that’s what you think.
I’ve seen plenyt of lesser teams beat the better team in teh post season, depending on who’s hotter (too many times actually). So who’s to say how long a team will stay hot for?